Laying the Foundations [Completed]

[Ksenia]

Ksenia spotted a table toward the back of the seafood shack and waved. She wove through the full tables scattered around and waited for the men to catch up. Standing to the side, she let Artemis have the corner seat and took the one next to him, leaving the leatherworkers to fight for position across the table. Gavin scowled slightly at Borin, who stopped in the aisle and waited. Ksenia lightly kicked Artemis under the table, nodding slightly at the two men. With ill grace, the redhead took the seat across from Artemis.

“Welcome gentlemen, order whatever you’d like and then we can get down to some discussion,” Artemis said before signaling a passing wench. The woman gave him a smile and moved off, returning several moments later.

“What can I get you all? Anything to share?” she asked the table looking to Artemis and then Ksenia.

“For me, a medium ale, and whatever goes well. I have the tab. Anything for you Miss Ksenia?” he added looking over at the seamstress with a half smile.

“The haddock, please, and do you serve tea?” Ksenia looked up at the waitress, who nodded. “A mug of tea then.” She turned across the table. “Borin? Gavin?”

“Oysters and beer, please,” Borin replied.

“I’ll have the haddock and an ale,” Gavin said, flicking his gaze to Ksenia. “I trust the lady knows best.” He shot her a toothy grin. Ksenia glanced at the table and gave him a sideways smile.

Artemis waited for the wench to leave and flicked his hand to gather attention. “Business first, and then you can do as you want,” he said offering Gavin the slightest of nods. “I am in the market to acquire a complete set of modified hardened leather specialist armor. This would include all components, from boots to cowl spine as well as the necessary carry containers and equipment holsters,” he said, steepling his hands and making sure to make eye contact with both men as he spoke. “I am willing to pay for the goods, with materials or funds for them provided in addition to an upfront payment of fifteen percent.”

Artemis held up a hand to forestall the numerous questions he could see whirling in each man’s head. “This could be in direct payment, or in exchange for operational space, storage, and lodging in a freeman’s hall located in the East District. Acceptance into the hall is contingent of course on approval by craftmistress Ksenia. Please take a moment to gather your thoughts and I will answer any questions you have.” With that Artemis leaned back slightly and dropped his hand to squeeze Ksenia’s knee that had kicked him before giving her a twitch of his eyebrows.

Ksenia gently pushed his hand away. “I spoke to both of you earlier, and I saw some of your work for sale. My concern, as neither of you have said you have experience making armor, is that you can produce gear that is both sturdy and pleasing to the eye. Mister Black has specific requirements, and to that end I’d like to ask you both to make a vambrace, that I can judge the quality and suitability of the work for myself, and with the knowledgeable input of Mister Black.” She smiled at Gavin and Borin. “As for the hall, I will have my own space there, and we have some available spaces, should you be interested.” She clasped her hands together and set them on the table. “Do you have any questions for me or Mister Black?”

“Have you got any plans or drawings, like, that we can look at? And when would you want it ready?” Borin asked, tapping his fingertips on the table.

“What he said -” Gavin nodded in Borin’s direction - “and I’d need to know exactly what caliber I should work toward. Does it need to stop a dagger? A greatsword? Arrows? Beyond that, if you can describe your hall to me, I’ve an interest. As I told Miss Ksenia, I’m finishing my apprenticeship soon.” He laid his palms on the table.

Ksenia looked over to Artemis. “Do you have design sketches for your armor to hand? It’s best that you describe what you need, since you’ll be the one wearing it.” She turned back to the two men. “As for the delivery date, let’s say three weeks from when you get your copy of the sketches. I’ll plan to come by mid-day during the bazaar and the next day.”

“The hall is under construction, currently, but it should be finished by the time I receive your work. There’s a number of spaces in different sizes - most are ten by ten, or ten by fifteen - and there’s an area indoors to eat or talk to others. Currently, the plan is to use some of the spaces as shared lodging, but Mister Black is hoping to expand in the near future to include separate living areas.” Ksenia tried to remember everything pertinent that Artemis had told her.

Artemis smiled at Ksenia and nodded to her, indicating she’d captured most of the salient points he’d wanted to discuss. “I do in fact have some blueprints, as well as the custom modifications that I’ll require. Please understand that it is acceptable if you cannot yet complete the entire piece as long as you intend to continue improving,” he said, pulling out the design for the vambrace and the specialist modifications that made it capable of holding easy access knives and interfacing with the climbing hooks he preferred. He knew the designs were complex, and required a solid understanding of several more advanced techniques. He wanted to see how the men, both lower in skill than the original creators, would respond and adapt.

Spreading the sheets out, the two leather workers pored over the designs. They shuffled the papers around until the waitress came back with their drinks. As she left, Ksenia reminded them, “Please try not to get grease or anything on the plans.” Borin pulled a notebook from a pocket and began jotting down notes; Gavin muttered to himself and gestured in ways that made sense to him alone.

The food came, steaming hot, and the wench set their plates down. “Here, hand me those. No point in worrying while we eat,” Ksenia said, stretching her hand out. She took the sheets and handed them to Artemis to tuck away. Conscious of being watched, Ksenia picked up her fork delicately. “What made you take to leatherworking, Gavin?” she asked, giving him an opportunity to talk.

Gavin chewed the chunk of haddock he’d just put in his mouth, taken off guard. “Well, my pa -” he swallowed noisily - “knew a man who did. I’d told Pa I had no love for the sea, so when I was old enough, he introduced me to Mister Tanner. He saw my childish sketches and what attempts I’d made at patching old kit, and said he could make a leatherworker of me yet.” He stopped to pop another bite into his mouth. “So, here I am, and all I’ve left to do is pass my exam and get Tanner’s blessing.”

Sipping her tea, Ksenia listened thoughtfully. “What’s your favorite thing to do then, the carvings and dyed scenes that I saw at your table, or something else?”

“I do work at those, Miss Ksenia, and I’d say it’s one of the more enjoyable things I do,” Gavin said, beaming. “To me, the appearance of a good piece can’t be understated.” He cleared his throat and lowered his voice. “Maybe I could make you something special, if you like? No charge, of course.”

“Oh, no, I’d never take advantage of a colleague; I’d pay a fair price,” Ksenia said frowning slightly. She put a bite of her fish into her mouth, trying to remember all the etiquette rules Mam had insisted she learn and use. She chewed slowly, trying to think of a way to make it clear to Gavin that this meal was not an excuse to get her attentions but to find out if he could do the job Artemis needed.

Borin slurped one of his oysters noisily, earning a sideways glare from Gavin. “And you Borin? What brought you to leatherworking?” Ksenia asked, thanking the idols for the interruption.

“Oh, my family’s done leatherworking for as far back as I can remember. My grandfather and my father both. Even my younger sister knows her way around a knife and a burnisher.” Borin took a swig of his beer. “I started on little things; a knife sheath, a bag for my mother, that sort of thing. When my father saw I was skilled enough, he had me work on making things to sell, and he’d show me ways to improve them and make them more sturdy.” He picked up an oyster shell. “Struck out on my own a little while ago. I still work at my family’s shop, but I have my own tools. I borrow the space.” As he finished, he raised the shell to his lips and slurped out the meat.

Artemis took a long draught of ale and smacked his lips appreciatively before setting his tankard back down. “Anything you’d like to know about the work itself?” he asked taking the plans and returning them to the table. It would give them time to look it over while they finished up their food.

Borin flicked his eyes down to the paper as he wrangled another oyster. When he’d swallowed the latest morsel he pointed to a marking on the vambrace plans. “What’re these indicators? I’ve seen something similar but never with that many sides,” he said leaning over slightly to look closer.

Artemis nodded and pointed at a similar marking on the far side of the plan. “They indicate areas where the flexibility may compromise the form and so alterations are needed on a per client basis. They will likely also be the areas requiring the earliest repair or replacement so their designs tend to lean towards simplifying this process over increasing sturdiness,” he said, speaking from his own memory discussing the armor with the master who’d made the plans for the Goose.

Borin nodded slowly, pieces clearly clicking together in his head. “So that means that these and those-,” he muttered to himself for several seconds before looking up. “I think I could give this a fair attempt in the time required,” he said making eye contact with Artemis and Ksenia individually.

Artemis had to commend the man, he’d clearly learned professionalism from, if not his father, than someone talented. He was concise, asked good questions, and seemed to rely on quiet confidence rather than loud bluster.

Gavin, noticing he was being left behind without an answer to the challenge, did something Artemis didn’t expect. “Can I walk through this with you real quick, make sure I’m understanding?” he said to Borin who looked just as surprised as Artemis was. The more experienced leatherworker nodded and listened intently as Gavin went over all the components of the plan. There were several moments where Borin interjected and even the two men came to a conclusion together.

“Unless you have more questions, I’ll be back in three weeks to check in,” Ksenia said. She stood up and moved into the aisle. “We’ll have copies of the plans made for you; you can pick them up from the hall in two days. Maybe take a look around, if you like.” She smiled at both of them. “It’s at 13 North Rigging in the East district.”

Artemis collected the sheets from the table and gave the men a nod as he tucked them away. When he stood the two men instinctively did the same and he moved over to shake their hands. Gavin’s form was firm but unpracticed whereas Borin had clearly been granted a good deal of experience. It only further solidified Artemis’ opinions of the two very different men.

“Have a good night, and we’ll see you around,” Ksenia said as she moved toward the street. Walking away from the shack, she stretched her arms over her head. “That went well enough, I guess. I’m sure you’ve got someone in mind by now,” she said to Artemis.

He chuckled and swung his arms slightly as he walked. “Well there’s the rub. They’re both about what I’m looking for. I think they could honestly do some amazing stuff if I could convince them to work together. Though that’ll be several hills of difficult.” He nodded his head towards Ksenia and bumped into her with his hip midstride. “And that Gavin boy, he’s handsome and thinks he might have something for you,” he said giving her a broad grin and a wink. “If he’s smart he’ll back off when you make it clear and stick around long enough to make a friend out of you instead. If he’s not, well that makes my choices simpler.”

“I think you’re right. Just from what I saw today, either could have a spot in the hall if they wanted. Might even have them in spots close to each other and that collaboration might happen on its own.” She rolled her eyes at him. “Gavin’s nice enough to look at, I guess, but I’m not looking for anything like that. I’ll admit I was at fault for flirting with him so much; I hope he can get over that, because I do think he’d be an asset to the hall.” She shot Artemis an amused look. “Perhaps you can convince him that your assets are better than mine.”

Artemis gave Ksenia a sashay of challenge. “If I wanted I imagine I could make him beg even. Magic hands you know,” he said with a laugh. “It might even be worth Katarya burning my house down if he’s eager as he seemed,” he said with a chuckle at his own joke. After several moments of companionable silence he added, “Thanks for the assist. Need to meet some carpenters tomorrow. Care to come on another adventure Craftmistress Ksenia?”

“I will - but this time you can flirt with them instead of me!” Ksenia replied, laughing.

[Artemis Black]

Artemis realized as he slowly came awake that he was in for another long and terribly busy day of finding and then talking to people he’d rather avoid all together. He sighed softly, flopping his arms around at the indecency of the world, before starting his morning stretches. Once he was up and about he locked up, moved upstairs, and started a slow jog towards the Velvet Goose. He wasn’t doing near as much roof running as of late, and he was starting to notice an ache in his muscles. He needed to stay on top of things or he’d be a paunchy merchant before too long. He chuckled at the idea of he and Katarya getting pleasantly plump and enjoying decadent meals.

When he arrived at the Goose the sun was just beginning to peek over the distant horizon. He’d managed to work up a light sweat and felt a comfortable warmth in his muscles as he slowed to a walk before sauntering into the tavern. He nodded to several of the servers and a group of laborers he recognized as he made his way to the back table nearest the kitchen. He leaned against the table and waited for a staff member to wander out.

Several minutes passed before Cece, one of the newer wenches, came out still facing inwards and talking back into the kitchen. She near jumped out of her skin when she turned and was practically atop Artemis. He hopped up and grabbed her to keep her upright on reflex. His face splitting into a broad grin as he released her.

“Usually it takes at least a drink to sweep a woman off her feet, but I’m not complaining,” he said giving her an exaggerated wink and a pat on the upper arm.

For her part Cece shook her head and laughed heartily. “Artemis, they didn’t lie about you, but I know I’ve told you I’m happily wooed by a lovely man,” she said lightly pushing him on the chest. “Now did you need something, or are you just here to scare staff out of their wits?”

He took her hand and gave her his best eyebrow waggle. “You never did say what this man did, I’m certain I could convince him to give me a second look if it earned more of your company,” he said giving her a dramatic bow and hopping up onto the table to give her space. “As for being here, I’m waiting on Kessy and thought I might catch Deb for a quick chat. Either of them about?” he asked her looking at the closed door behind her.

“Well, aren’t you the cocky one!” Cece laughed. “I’ve never yet caught him looking at anyone outside the ‘fairer sex’ and barely any other women besides me.” She chuckled. “Deb should be in the kitchen. I haven’t seen Ksenia yet,” Cece said thoughtfully. “Probably still getting up,” she added after a moment.

Artemis chuckled and slid down off the table, “You’ll need to bring him for dinner then, see if I can work my charms,” he said giving her a quick hug that left her slightly confused before he stepped into the kitchen with a confident gait. As soon as he spotted the Korcai, looking over a collection of tableware, he strode up behind her and pressed her into the table with his hips. “Hello dangerous woman. I wanted to talk to you about a mutual friend,” he whispered softly into her ear.

Deb bit her lip at the pressure from Artemis’s body. “Oh, would you now?” she said, leaning her hands against the table. “Don’t suppose it could be over a bite?"

Artemis leaned into her and put his hands on her hips, giving her a push against the table. “As fun as that sounds I’ve got a date with a lovely seamstress and I’d hate to be stuck here all morning lounging in pleasure with you just to disappoint her,” he said giving her a squeeze with his hands.

Deb flipped around to sit on the table and hooked her legs around him, yanking his hips into hers and forcing her chest outward, resting her arms on his shoulders. Holding him there she sighed deeply and kissed his cheek. “You’re a horrible tease, Arty. But I won’t let you disappoint Ksenia. She’s my only dearest for now, and she’s had enough hurt. Don’t add to it.”

He set his forehead against hers and grinned. “I promise not to, I even snuck a friendly hug from her the other night and she didn’t die of shock. She’s perhaps just as important to me as she is to you. Ask her about her boy troubles some time,” he added, before slipping from her grasp and sitting down beside her.

“I’ll take credit for her being more accepting of friendly touch,” Deb said, with a slight smirk. “And why do you think I should ask about her ‘boy troubles’, as you put it?” she asked, arching an eyebrow and tilting her chin down to look at him through her lashes.

“I stumbled upon a set of talents I think she could refine one day, after a good deal of getting better and feeling confident. She’s an absolute terror at the table, and if the tiny sliver I saw was any indication she could make men ruin their marriages just for a chance at her laugh,” he said surprisingly seriously. “And I just wanted to check with you and let you know I’ve been putting pressure on her. Give her a good rub down for me,” he said, leaning over to squeeze Deborah’s shoulder.

“She’s adorable, I’ll give you that. A terror, though?” Deb chuckled. “That I’d like to see. Although, I don’t think she’s ever told me what she likes, men or women,” she said trailing off in thought.

“Certainly neither until she gets past a few more deep scars I’d imagine. I’m just pushing for making some light friends, maybe someone other than a biter,” he said giving the Korcai a wink.

Deb rolled her eyes and shoved Artemis gently with her shoulder. “Sure you are -” she began, but was interrupted by heavy footsteps from the hallway. A dressed, but clearly not awake, Ksenia came forward and flopped on the table next to Deb.

“Please tell me there’s tea,” Ksenia mumbled into the surface of the table. She turned her head to lay it flat on her cheek. “Oh. Morning Artemis,” she said, attempting a half wave of her fingers.

“Morning Craftmistress,” he replied, wiggling Deborah’s breast with his hand to wave back.

Ksenia turned her face back into the table. “It is too early for this,” she grumbled. “I don’t need to see you fondle everyone in your reach.” She cut her eyes at him and turned her face slightly in his direction. “Besides, I’m sure Katarya would have something to say about that. After she was done screaming your name about a hundred times.”

Artemis moved his hand back but didn’t release Deborah’s waist. “We’ll be bones and dust long before Deb, no sense in pretending otherwise. Besides, some things in life deserve to be appreciated,” he said with a waggle of his eyebrows. “I’m sure I could convince my Lómë to grant me clemency.” He touched the ring he’d been wearing since the moment she gave it to him and invoked its power for an instant. A faint flash of his love appeared and instantly faded from his thoughts.

“I see I was wrong. Ugh, sappiness. It’s always too early for that,” Ksenia said, waving her hand in his general direction. “Also, good luck convincing her to let you paw other people. I’ll believe that when I see it,” she said, stretching and yawning. She pushed off the table. “I absolutely need tea if I’m going to continue talking to you.”

Deb sighed. “Get food too!” she called to Ksenia. Ksenia grumbled but took a plate when she picked up her mug. She tossed meats and egg on the plate, letting them splat a bit, before filling her tea mug by the fire. She came back to the table and hopped up next to Deb. Scowling, Ksenia shoved a large piece of food into her mouth followed by a long drink of tea.

“What’s your plan? Woodworkers today?” she asked Artemis, holding her tea mug to her face. Warm. She inhaled the steam and smiled softly. “I think that’s what you said last night, anyway,” Ksenia said, grabbing another bite of food after Deb glared at her.

“That is in fact the plan. Hoping I can find the sort either looking for work, or in a bit of a lull. They tend to overhire at the start of the winter so there’s plenty of patched hulls come the thaws. Figure morning autumn is our best chance to catch the guys who are looking for any work to fill the time until that rush starts,” he said, leaning his head on Deb’s shoulder as he spoke with his free hand.

Ksenia nodded; her mouth was full of food and she didn’t trust herself not to spit eggy bits on to Deb or Artemis accidentally. She washed it down with a swig of tea. “All right then, no sense in wasting-”

“Food.” Deb pointed at Ksenia’s still half full plate. “Eat.”

“But Deb -”

“Don’t ‘but Deb’ me. Eat your food,” Deb replied. She tapped the edge of the plate. “You know you need it.”

Ksenia sighed. She tilted her head and looked up at Deb through her eyelashes. “I’m already getting full...please?” She clasped her hands in front of herself pleadingly.

Artemis froze and made a soft wheezing sound before he finally managed to gasp out, “I’ve heard that before.” He then buried his face in Deborah’s neck and vibrated with laughter for several long moments.

Ksenia’s face turned multiple shades of bright red as she gave him a glare that blended equal parts frustration and disbelief. “Really?!” She slapped her fork down on the table. “Fuck you, Artemis.”

He motioned with his hand still chuckling, “That is typically when I hear it, yes,” he said making sure to keep the Korcai between him and the annoyed half-elf.

Ksenia huffed a breath and crossed her arms across her chest, glaring at him. “Ugh. Men. Really. Now I’m sure I’ve lost my appetite,” she said, standing up and taking her plate over to the sink. For her part Deborah remained silent, but kept a hand in front of an amused smirk.

“Let’s just go, before you make another crack at my expense,” Ksenia said. She tossed back the last of her tea. “Besides. It’s your business and your need of skilled workers. I’m just along for distraction, as far as I can tell.”

Artemis shook his head and hopped off the table. He gave Deborah one more long and involved hug before turning to look at Ksenia. “I’ll not make any more today, I promise,” he said and placed his palm over his heart. “And you’re there because you’re the Craftmistress of the Hall. You’ve also got a better sense for business than I do. I’m just good with plans and contracts.”

“Don’t make promises you can’t keep,” Ksenia said, sticking her tongue out at him. “Plans and contracts are what business runs on, so there’s no sense in you overblowing my apparent ability to convince people to work for you.” She gave Deb a hug, resting her head on Deb’s shoulder for a moment. “I’ll be back for dinner tonight, or I’ll let you know,” Ksenia said before she released her grip.

“That reminds me, Deborah, please bother Cece about bringing her man tonight. I want to meet him and I may have teased a dinner. Ask Robert if he can cut us something nice? Tell him I’ll take it off his list in exchange,” he said and turned away when Deb nodded.

⁂

The morning mists had just about burned away completely as they approached the shipbuilders district. There were a good number of people, mostly larger men, wandering about even this early in the day. As they walked they attracted a fair share of second glances. Artemis scanned everyone they passed with a discerning eye. He was looking for a tinge of desperation, but not the sort that pushed a man to murder or steal.

Artemis was starting to get worried they’d need to check into the bunkhouses when someone slammed into Ksenia with all the grace of a ship ran aground. The half-elf bounced away and Artemis whipped around to catch her and palm a knife.

“What the fuck do you-” he started before the man held his hands up and struggled to get his feet. The thief, very experienced with all manner of ploys to get close to a target, realized there was something wrong with the man. When you moved in to pickpocket, plant, or even gut a mark you didn’t have twinges and ticks and you definitely didn’t lose all your balance. If things went sideways you’d be dead before you could get a boot back down.

Artemis patted Ksenia on the shoulder, making sure she wasn’t too distressed, and glared at the man. Ksenia turned to look at the person who’d almost knocked her over. She studied him for a moment, then went over and reached out her hand. “Are you all right?”

“S’fine damn it. Just these thrice-taken fools and their uneven stones,” the man growled in irritation. He wasn’t the largest man Artemis had seen, but he was certainly built like a sailor. His broad chest and heavy arms led up to a tattooed neck and a salt scrubbed face that had seen more than its fair share of winters. From the outside his legs seemed fine, no obvious tears in his clothing or blood.

‘Must be a more permanent sort of wound, the kind that takes a man out of work,’ Artemis thought to himself as he stepped up to be beside Ksenia. “We’re not looking to make trouble, lemme buy you a drink,” he said to the man, hoping he could avoid any sort of conflict in this part of town.

The man looked at Artemis with a frown and fierce squint of suspicion. “You in the habit of buying every cripple a drink, or just feeling generous?” he asked warily.

“I’m in the habit of offering work, the legal kind, to folks I see might could use it,” he replied, offering his hand but not his forearm.

The man looked down to his hand, back to his face, and then at Ksenia. When he looked at the seamstress his frown softened. “May as well, told not to come back anyhow,” he said with a sigh before gripping the thief’s hand. His grip was powerful but not designed to crush and Artemis returned the shake with a small squeeze of his own.

Ksenia shaded her eyes and looked around the area. “Looks like there’s a stand over there,” she said, pointing. “Let’s head that way, and see if there’s ale flowing already.” She smirked with one side of her mouth. “It’s ‘quittin’ time’ somewhere, isn’t that what they say?”

Artemis followed along behind Ksenia, keeping his pace to match the off-kilter hobble of their new drinking companion. “I’m Artemis, what do they call you besides big?” he asked the man with an easy smile.

The fellow looked at him and huffed before shaking his head. “They call me Jacobus, and I’d rather know her name if she doesn’t mind over much. Reminds me of my daughter and I could use something nice to remember for a while,” Jacobus said with a scrub at his neck as they came up to the ale wagon.

“Ksenia,” she said. “I work with Artemis here, and I sew clothes and things.” She smiled at Jacobus. “I’ll get the drinks, and you two can take a load off on that bench there,” she gestured to the nearby seats. “Ale for you, I know, Artemis. What can I get for you, Jacobus?”

“Ale as well,” he said before limping his way to the bench and slumping down into it. “Sewing eh? My girl did carving. She’d make figureheads you’d swear were just waiting to come alive if you looked away,” he said before giving a soft sigh.

“That takes a lot of skill,” Ksenia said, coming over with three mugs. “I do fancy work sometimes, but it’s never anything that looks that lifelike.” She handed the mugs around. “I’ve done a lot of mending, a fair amount of making clothes from simple to a ladies’s party dresses, and more than a bit of embroidery, but I’ve always admired those who can create a figure that looks like it could walk away if you didn’t keep your eye on it.”

Jacobus took his mug and took a long drink. When he’d swallowed he looked at Artemis. “So, what’s the trick? You’re going around picking up workers for some kind of drug run or something?” he asked with less bite than before.

Artemis took a small drink and offered the man a few small tilts of his head. “Nothing like that. I own a warehouse, one that’s run down and the inside’s liable to come apart. I need men who can get it clean so it’ll pass inspection. Then I need them around to get it up to plan for a freeman’s hall. If I do it right I imagine some of them might stick around and do more work for me once we’re in business,” he said, realizing Jacobus wasn’t one to beat around or mince words. “You know anyone looking for work can do some solid carpentry in exchange for a warm bed and meals?” he asked the man before taking another slow drink.

Jacobus looked at Artemis blankly for several long seconds before he let out a rasping laugh. “You’re not even spinning something. You’re just out here looking for desperate folks on the cheap,” he said as he shook his head. Then he looked up at Ksenia and nodded slightly. “I think I could maybe get some folks around. I’m a certified shipwright, kept in business for twenty-eight years until this bastard,” he said patting his leg. “By Cecilia, what a hell of a day,” he said to himself before taking a deep draught of his ale.

“You’d really help us out,” Ksenia said, gesturing at herself and Artemis. “We’ve already got some crafters interested in space, and there’s nothing to offer them until we can get in workers to build the insides.” She wrapped her hands around her mug, thinking. “That’s not something either of us know how to do, and having someone who knows enough about the craft to help us find good workers would be wonderful,” she said. “Even if you don’t want to swing a hammer yourself, you know what should be done and how, and that’s skill worth paying for.”

Jacobus shook his head a few more times before taking a much smaller drink of his ale. “I wanna hear about this sewing thing you do. Take that in exchange for me having to walk around this idols-forsaken place to get the crew?” he asked Ksenia, clearly having bought into the idea and letting some excitement creep into his voice.

“That’s a fair deal,” she said, with a crooked smile. “Anything specific you want to hear about? I could tell you about the time I hemmed a dress for a little girl that was a hand-me-down from her big sister, and I got so focused on the stitching that I accidentally made it four inches too short! Even her mother thought that was funny, and I taught the older sister a bit of sewing that day too, while I was there picking out several inches of careful stitches.” Ksenia sipped a bit of her ale.

“Oh! I just remembered, I can show you some embroidery at least,” she said, fishing for her pocket that was tucked under her skirts. “All the stitches I know are on there, and some are from when I first learned them as a child. A cook taught me a few, sitting by the fire one winter.” She held out the teardrop shaped pouch, longer than her hand.

The entire surface of the pocket was covered with patches of different embroidery stitches, winding around the slit-shaped opening in the center. She flipped it over carefully, and on the back were letters and a few round raised spots that looked a bit like a rose. “I tried to keep this to my best work,” she said, looking down at it. “You’ll never guess what I would practice on.”

Jacobus had a soft smile on his face and hiccuped slightly as he watched Ksenia explain her work. He was clearly feeling the loss of his daughter though Artemis wasn’t about to push him to share those sorts of things. Business first, he could have a real drink with the man when they had their first week’s rent in hand. For now though, he could spend some time letting the shipwright reminisce at Ksenia’s expense.

“Go on then, give me a guess!” Ksenia grinned. She let the pocket hang against her skirt. “No? No guesses?” She gave a dramatic sigh. “I’d use my underdresses - there’d be embroidery from my neck to my ankles under all my plain dresses!” She chuckled a bit. “It usually wasn’t the best, but no one would see it anyway. And I’d always have it around whenever I got a minute,” she said, with a wry smile.

Jacobus let out a hearty rasping laugh and clapped his good leg. “Smart like my girl too, well I’ll be,” he said before wiping at his eyes. He caught his breath for a moment and raised his mug. “Alright then, let’s start the hellish work of chasing down more broken and desperate folk. I’m gonna tell them you made me foreman, you don’t say otherwise ya hear?” he said, giving Artemis and Ksenia a weary smile.

⁂

They had six men and a woman standing around the East Hall workyard when the sun hit the middle of the sky. Artemis had followed behind Jacobus all over the dockside. They’d gone in and out of taverns, bunkhouses, a whore house, and even a bakery to collect what the old shipwright was calling ‘me crew’. Amusingly, neither Artemis or Ksenia had said a word of business the entire time, instead idly chatting with the collected workers while Jacobus convinced his next victim to join along.

Artemis gave the shipwright, now foreman, a wave and the man nodded to him before falling in line with the rest of the group. “Gentlemen, lady, and whatever else we’ve got here,” he said as he took a relaxed stance in front of them. “My name is Artemis Black, and this sad heap of rocks and wood is my warehouse. Your job, under the expert guidance of Foreman Jacobus-” There were several chuckles and even one outright laugh. Artemis waited until the crew was quiet again before continuing. “And the illustrious Craftmistress Ksenia, is to get this building qualified for inspection.” Ksenia undermined her employer by covering her face just after she snorted loudly in derision.

For their part, the crew was a rather ragtag gang who at least seemed enthusiastic. Jacobus had promised each was worth his salt and had some reason or another they’d been put off ship work that wouldn’t harm the work on site. “Any questions?” Artemis asked, looking only at his foreman.

“When’s lunch sir?” Jacobus asked with a broad grin. “We’ve got the young out fetching the tools, and I’ll need to get the wood on order so we may as well eat.”

“Follow me then,” Artemis said, heading into the warehouse. He was going to show them all the secret doorway. They’d have to strip down the building and remake it so they were bound to wonder about the giant barrel. It would likely not even be a day before someone snooped around enough to open the thing up and do something stupid. So instead, he’d cut that off at the knees and show them anyway. Maybe get some ideas on making it a smoother hideaway.

With a quick movement Artemis knelt down and triggered the well-oiled door mechanism for the secret stairway. There were some mumbles from the crew but nothing too distressing. “This used to be a rum runners’ route. For now, it will lead us to lunch. I’d appreciate if you didn’t gab to everyone and their mother about it. I’d also appreciate any ideas to make things a bit less showy,” he said before heading down the stone steps.

Ksenia followed behind Artemis. “Let me go ahead and warn them,” she said. “I’ll make sure we can get a table.” She slipped past him and through the passage, glancing at the locked door to Artemis’s room. ‘I’ll need to see about moving my things down here in a day or two,’ she thought, as she moved down the passage. She knocked on the door, and as it swung open, she told the burly man who guarded the room, “Artemis is behind me, with seven more people. They work for him, so please let them through.” He nodded and she dashed up the stairs to the alleyway.

Popping into the kitchen, Ksenia wove through the kitchen staff to find Tommy. “I’ve got Artemis and seven workers coming in that I’ll need a table for. Any open spots?”

Tommy tapped his chin with the side of his index finger. “I might be able to find a table… if you give me a kiss,” he said with a smirk. Ksenia shot him a flat glare, then quickly stood on her tiptoes to lay a feather-light kiss on his cheek.

“There,” she said. “Now, the table?”

“Sure thing,” he said, grinning, and left the kitchen to roust the Goose muscle from their usual table. Ksenia wiped her mouth on her sleeve, grimacing. ‘Ass,’ she thought angrily.

Tommy came back in to tell her the table was cleared, and Ksenia appeared to think for a moment. “Oh, have you seen Deb around? If you do, tell her that her dearest says hello.” She gave him a very big smile as his face froze and then dropped. She sauntered out to the table to hold it until Artemis and the others could get there.

Artemis led his crew through the side alley and around to the proper entrance to the Velvet Goose. There were several remarks, some of appreciation and others of amusement, as he pushed open the heavy front door. Inside the place was packed to standing room, and Artemis frowned as he scanned over the crowds. He didn’t have the coin to put them upstairs and he didn’t have the favors to clear a table. Then he spotted Ksenia, standing beside the staff table looking somewhat smug.

He weaved his way through the throng and motioned for his crew to fall in at the broad table. “So whose balls did you fondle to get this?” he whispered to Ksenia as the carpenters settled in.

“Fortunately, no one. Had to kiss Tommy, but the idiot didn’t specify, so he barely got a peck on the cheek.” Ksenia gave him a Cheshire grin. “Poor boy also forgot whose ‘dearest’ I was.” She gave a low chuckle. “Don’t think he’ll try that again!”

Artemis gave her a grin in return. “Well now, that’s well done. Though you’ll likely not get anything from him ever again,” he said with a shrug. “I must admit, knowing Tommy got a kiss from you before I could sneak one does irk me. I’ll need to sneak something on your hand one day,” he added with an exaggerated wink.

“Idols help me, if you try that ‘close your eyes and hold out your hand’ routine-” Ksenia began. The table had gotten quieter and she felt eyes on her. “It was purely business,” she said, straightening her spine. She looked around for Cece or Charlotte, or anyone else working lunch shift. Seeing Cece, she waved until she caught the woman’s eye. “Should be a server over in a bit,” she said, back to the table. She shot Artemis a tiny glare as they waited for Cece to come over.

“Just saying, every other woman loved it when I did the eyes and hand bit,” Artemis muttered with exaggerated moping. Then Cece appeared at the table.

“My, quite the party here today,” she said as she walked up and moved to ignore Artemis and speak to the table. “I’m Cece, and you all must be friends of Ksenia, and perhaps unfortunately Artemis. What can I get all of you?” she said giving the whole table one of her brilliant smiles.

There was a sudden scramble of voices and then quiet followed by the crew ordering one at a time around the table. Artemis listened and nodded as they each ordered. Cece gave them all a quick repeat of their order and then smiled and turned away. As she walked around Artemis she grabbed his arm and tugged him away.

Once they were in the bustling kitchen Cece gave the order to the staff and turned to corner Artemis in the kitchen corner. “What are you planning, inviting my man to an evening of fine dining?” she said with narrowed eyes.

Artemis looked confused for a moment and then grinned. “Did Deb catch him when he came by to give you a kiss or something?” he asked with a soft laugh.

“No- maybe- fine, she did, and he thought it sounded wonderful. Now what’s this all about? Is this a sick joke, are you trying to ruin me?” she near hissed.

He held his hands up in submission and shook his head. “Nothing like that, I just enjoy good food and fine drink. Meeting new folks with it is half the fun. Plus any man who snagged you has to be worth an evening in the moonlight,” he said and quickly put his hand out to stave off her rebuttal. “I’m not trying to ruin anything, just meet the man who’s got an in to people I care about. Nothing more. Unless-” he said waggling his eyebrows. “I’m always up for adventure if you are,” he finished.

Cece stared at him incredulously for several seconds before throwing her hands up and shooing him out of the kitchen. “Now I know why they warned me. You’re an absolute cad,” she said before she shut the door forcibly behind him.

The crew at the table started chatting as they waited for their food and drinks. Ksenia tried to listen so she could join in, but it seemed like fifty different conversations were going on.

“So, no shit, there I was-”
“I says to him, I says, it’s only this big!”
“The food weren’t the only thing that smelled fishy at Madame’s-”
“- and there he goes, walked right into-”
“No! What did he-”
“- said I’d never try that again!”
“-took us half the day to get him out-”
“Never trust a-”
“-found a ribbon in my smallclothes-”

Ksenia just sat and let the conversation swirl around her. Cece had dragged Artemis away, and the hubbub of the packed tavern kept her from really being able to talk to anyone and hear them.

“So, Craftmistress, eh?” asked the woman sitting across from her. “And what might your craft be?” she said with a leer and a wink as she leaned across the table. Ksenia schooled her features into a slight boredom. “I might be asking for a ‘demonstration’ of that craft tonight,” the woman said, grinning.

“I’m a seamstress, actually.” Ksenia kept her voice level and her fists below the table. “I work on bags and clothing and certainly not your smallclothes.”

Jacobus overheard their conversation and lightly punched the woman on the shoulder. “Be nice, Amalia. She’s the one who decides if I get to kick you out on your arse in the morning,” he said like a parent scolding a teenager.

Artemis slid back into his seat while Jacobus was speaking. Ksenia threw him a look and sighed, frowning slightly.

“Someone do something stupid already?” he asked settling in at the table and giving a grin to Jacobus.

“Aye, I’ll get ‘em straight boss. No sense in bothering you or the Craftmistress,” the foreman replied and glared at Amalia again. For her part, the woman actually looked apologetic and bowed her head slightly to Ksenia before looking away.

“See, now, you ought to be talking to Artemis,” Ksenia said, giving the other woman a small grin. “After all, he’s the one with the magic fingers here,” she pointed at him. “And I’ve heard the reviews in his favor - all night long, I might add, from next door.”

Artemis coughed suddenly into his elbow and turned a deep red. Amalia cracked a sudden grin and started to laugh. “Not to my tastes, sorry, but maybe Kent would take you up on that!” She guffawed and called to the man. “Oi, mate! You need to be talking to the boss about overtime!” As the message passed, the table erupted into barks of laughter.

Cece arrived suddenly, with two other staff in tow carrying the round of drinks. They were expertly deposited before she looked around. “Anything else before the food?” she asked no one in particular.

“You heard the boss in the early hours too?” Lynwood, the crew’s toolmaster asked, giving Cece a broad grin.

The wench blinked and then turned a glare on Artemis. “I have not had the displeasure, but I’m told Ksenia can tell many stories,” she said before tossing her hands up and moving back to the kitchen.

Seven heads swiveled to Ksenia. “Oh now, I can’t be telling all the stories on the first day,” she said, holding up her hands. “What reason would you have to come back if you heard them all?” she grinned widely.

Artemis put his head into his hands but couldn’t hide the blush rushing to his neck and cheeks. “I’m going to make Deb ride you like a rocking horse,” he growled through his palms.

“Why, does she need to take lessons from your - what was it - Lómë?” Ksenia leaned on the last word, with a grin on her face.

Artemis’ face snapped up and looked her in the eyes, his grin was wide and triumphant. “I’m sure they could teach each other a thing or two. I’m more worried for your delicate neck when our friend hears how energetic you’ve been.”

Ksenia snorted. “I think you’d be more worried they’d leave you out entirely, if they have such a wide skillset. I doubt they’d give me a first glance, let alone a second, and my neck would be safe.”

“Oh sweet innocent Ksenia. There’s always the pleasures of a show,” he replied shaking his head in mock regret. By this point the entire crew was watching them with rapt attention. It wasn’t every day your new bosses were at each other’s throats, friendly banter or no.

Ksenia blanched and turned away. “You win.” She put a hand to her mouth for a moment, taking a slow sip of her tea. “Excuse me, please,” she said, and slid off the bench. Keeping her head down, she moved quickly to the hall that led to the bathrooms.

“Ah, a cut too far perhaps,” Artemis said looking around the table. “Don’t mind, we’ll talk more later with a bit less enthusiasm,” he added before taking a long slow drink. The crew shrugged or nodded and went back into their own pile of discussions. After he finished his drink Artemis got up and followed after the half-elf.

Ksenia held her stomach. She’d retched from the moment her foot crossed the door, but nothing had come up except a bit of tea. ‘At least Deb won’t push me to eat more,’ she thought, morosely. Her stomach twisted again at the thought of food, and she lunged for the toilet. Coughing, she spat out saliva as it welled up in her mouth.

The specter of Raoul floated up from the corner of her memories where she tried to confine him. Her mother’s boyfriend - the party - his friends’ lewd comments - being pushed onto the table, the men crowded around - Ksenia whimpered softly and hugged the toilet. Her stomach twisted again, but weak from its exertion, gave a feeble attempt at emptying itself.

She took several ragged, deep breaths before pushing herself to stand. Ksenia knew she looked awful; at the sink, she ran cold water over her hands and splashed some on her face, trying to will her eyes to be less red. Not wanting to stay in the suddenly close room any longer, she jerked the door open.

Artemis had his hands up and knew Deborah was only a half minute behind him if he had any luck. “I take it something real bad happened. I’m going to say you needed to handle business here and let you go for the day,” he said softly and evenly.

“I’ll- I’ll be fine,” Ksenia said, swallowing. “Sorry, I didn’t - I shouldn’t have teased you, made them laugh at you.” She shook her head violently, as though trying to jostle the memories back into their dark corner. “My fault. I provoked you.” She closed her eyes tightly. “I’ll come back to the table.”

“You don’t have to apologize for teasing me, I deserve it and enjoy it. I don’t know all the trips and traps of you though, and I apparently blundered into one enough to make you empty your stomach,” he said very gently settling his open palm onto her upper arm. “Do you want a hug? I’m not as witty as Deb, but I’ve heard good things.”

Ksenia put her hand over his. “Sorry - I - not right now,” she said, squeezing his hand gently. “I didn’t expect that to hit, like that,” she said, in partial explanation. “Maybe someday, I’ll tell you. I’ll probably have to be drunk, but I think maybe - maybe you should know.”

Artemis nodded and gave her a squeeze of his own before letting his hand drop. “Deb, she’s yours for ten minutes. Then I want my Craftmistress back. Keep her in one piece,” he said as he heard the Korcai coming at a clipped fast walk down the hall. He stepped back and let the woman take charge. He wasn’t about to stand between them.

Deb came forward and cupped Ksenia’s face in her hands. Her cool touch felt wonderful on Ksenia’s hot face, and she let her eyelids fall closed. Deb tugged her forward slightly. “Do you want to talk about it, dearest?”

Ksenia shook her head. “No - the dreams, the bad ones you came and got me from - it’s that. It needs to stay hidden. I’ve got work to do.” She looked at Deb. “I need to be able to do my job,” Ksenia said, a pleading look on her face.

Taking her by the shoulders, Deb buried her face in Ksenia’s neck. To a passerby, Deb would have looked like she had given the smaller woman a heartfelt hug - unless they heard Ksenia’s soft gasp. Deb’s fangs pierced her skin, the saliva with its calming effects kicking in as Ksenia reflexively embraced Deb. The Korcai closed her lips on top of the wound, taking only a taste before she began to heal it closed.

Ksenia laid her head on Deb’s shoulder. The feeling of warmth and contentment spread through her, tracing her veins. “Thank you,” she whispered. Deb petted her hair. Ksenia raised her head and looked at Deb. “I probably look like I’ve been dragged backward through a berry patch,” she said with a twist to her lips.

“It will fade. Your eyes are red from the strain, but it’s still blood; it will calm down.” Deb kissed her cheek. “I’ll still have to hunt tonight, but you’re my favorite appetizer,” Deb said, giving Ksenia a sideways smile. Ksenia chuckled a bit.

“I’ll be alright. I’ll try to make it back tonight for an early-ish dinner so I can see you before you leave.” Ksenia squeezed Deb around her waist and took a deep breath before stepping back. “Okay. I’m ready,” she said, looking at Artemis.

Artemis started and blinked in confusion. He rubbed at his neck, almost by reflex, and was blushing heavily. “That- that feeling never really goes away, does it Bitey?” he said, forcing a weak chuckle before giving himself a shake. Deborah just smiled, shook her head, and shooed them away.

[Ksenia]

After lunch, Artemis had told her that he could handle the work crew, and to relax. She headed up to the work room, but the idea of sitting in solitude made her jumpy. Glancing around the room, she saw her bedroll, and remembered that she wouldn't have it much longer. Once she moved out of the Goose, she would need things like bedding. As it was only mid-day, she decided to hunt for what she needed in Miss Turley's fabric piles.

Ksenia emptied her bag of everything she could before heading out. “Hello!” she called out, pushing open the door of The Discerning Maiden. Miss Turley appeared suddenly, as though called into being by a visitor.

“Do I know you then, child?” She squinted a bit at Ksenia, her arms crossed.

“I’ve come by before,” Ksenia replied. “I was with a friend - Artemis Black, I think you know him?”

The old woman cackled. “I do indeed. A number of pretty girls young Mister Black has as friends,” she said. She winked at Ksenia.

“I’m sure. I’m his uninterested friend the seamstress,” Ksenia remarked wryly. “I’m in need of a few things. Shall I call you when I’m done having a look around?”

“That’s fine, just shout.” Miss Turley waved her off and vanished among the stacks again.

Ksenia poked through the shelves, looking for bedding and any warm clothes that might catch her eye. She had two warm dresses already, but another one or two would be a good idea. There was no luck on the pillows or clothes, but she found an almost-long enough blanket and a mattress cover that might be serviceable with a few repairs. She forced her way to the front counter, piled them up, and headed for the back wall. Fabric was always useful, and maybe she’d find something nice to sew.

Searching the shelves meticulously, Ksenia turned up a length of deep purple wool, light enough in weight that she could wear it into the spring and through most of fall as well as winter. There were also some large sacks, shoved in a corner. She carefully picked open the ties and found locks of wool, uncombed and undyed. She held back a gasp and untied two of the other sacks, which also proved to be wool. Retying them quickly, she lugged the wool and one of the sacks up front before returning for the last two.

“Miss Turley?” Ksenia called. The older woman appeared, with no sign of her movement until she was behind the counter. “What will all this run me?” Ksenia asked, gesturing to the bedding, the wool, and the three sacks.

Miss Turley eyed the pile with a calculating look. “A half silver.”

Ksenia winced. “What if I only get one of the sacks?”

The old woman sighed. “I can do a quarter silver, I suppose. Only because you’re Mister Black’s friend, mind. Bring him next time, dearie.”

Ksenia nodded and fished out a pile of coppers. She hadn’t brought any silver with her, not expecting to need it. As Miss Turley counted the coins, Ksenia folded the wool and the blanket and crammed them into her bag. She slung the rolled mattress cover over her shoulder and grabbed the neck of the sack in her free hand. Miss Turley nodded and Ksenia wished her good day before heading out the door.

The sack was heavy and pulled at the skin on her hands. She had to keep swapping the cover and the sack from hand to hand as her palms ached. Seeing Artemis’s warehouse, she tried the door, but it was very firmly and obviously locked and barred. She huffed, blew on her hands, and continued on to the Goose.

By the time she reached the gate, Ksenia couldn’t hold the sack up anymore. Having no other choice, she dragged it down the road - and through a muddy rut in the dirt. She kicked a rock with the toe of her shoe. Her hands still hurt fiercely, and now she’d have to wash the damn fleece before she used it to stuff the mattress cover. At least the Goose was close.

She hauled the back door open, shoved the sack inside, and tried to lift it off the floor of the kitchen. Her arms informed her that wasn’t happening. Ksenia grit her teeth and propped the muddy bottom of the sack on her foot to walk it across the kitchen. The staff watched her; she heard a few snickers but couldn’t pinpoint who it was when she looked.

“What’s this?” Deb came into the hallway as Ksenia finally made it out of the kitchen.

“Fleece,” Ksenia replied, in a flat tone. Deb looked at her carefully.

“Where did you get it?”

“Turley’s. The clothes shop Artemis goes to,” Ksenia said. She let go of the bag, hissing slightly as the sack’s neck rubbed her raw hands. “Had to lug it from there.”

“I see.” Deb reached out and took Ksenia’s hands. Ksenia flinched slightly. “I can also see we need to do something about this.” She turned Ksenia’s hands palm up; the skin was shiny and red. Deb sighed. “I’ll get your sack up the stairs, then we’ll see about fixing you up.”

“Deb, the bottom’s all muddy and nasty, it’ll get you dirty -” Ksenia started.

“I do wash, you know,” Deb said wryly, as she hefted the sack onto her shoulder. “This is much too heavy for you.” She started up the stairs with Ksenia trailing behind. “Why did you buy all of this fleece?”

“Makes good mattress stuffing,” Ksenia said, as she slung the mattress cover off her shoulder and onto the floor. “I’m going to need something to sleep on once I move out of my - er, the storeroom here.” She slid her bag off her shoulder.

“You know you could have asked me, dearest,” Deb said, frowning a bit.

“I know. I also know I don’t want to take advantage of your generosity, even if you’d give me whatever I wanted,” Ksenia said. She held up her hands and sighed. “I don’t think I’ll be sewing any tonight.”

“No, you won’t.” Deb shoved the sack in the far corner. “You’re due a bath anyway, and I can fix up your hands a bit after.”

“I got a full bath just last week!” protested Ksenia. “You don’t have to -”

“I want to,” Deb interrupted. “I am going to bathe you, then I will feed you and put you to bed, and you’re going to let me.”

Ksenia sighed, smiling. “I don’t see I have much choice, do I?”

Deb shook her head. “No.” Ksenia hugged her, keeping her hands away to avoid making them hurt more. “I have a surprise for you,” Deb said, resting her chin lightly on Ksenia’s head. Ksenia tilted her head back to look at Deb, but she only gave the younger woman a closed-lipped smile.

Once in the bathroom, Ksenia began to strip off her dress, biting her lip as her hands throbbed, but Deb shook her head and lifted the dress off Ksenia’s body. She laid the dress on one of the benches before going back to the tub and dropping a cloth bag into the warm water. Ksenia came over to the tub and sniffed. “Lavender? You really are spoiling me tonight,” grinned Ksenia.

“And why not?” Deb said. “In with you.” She held Ksenia’s forearm to stabilize her as she clambered in the tub. Ksenia slumped against the back of the tub, letting her head roll to the side. The warm water began to soothe her aching shoulder muscles, letting them slowly unkink themselves. Deb tapped her head lightly and Ksenia dunked her head into the water.

One of the best parts of Deb’s frequent baths was the head massage she gave, Ksenia thought languidly. Deb’s thumbs worked along her neck, rubbing out knots and smoothing the muscles. When she ran her hands through Ksenia’s hair, Deb’s long nails lightly scraped her scalp. The circular scrubbing motion that worked up a lather released tension Ksenia didn’t even know she’d had. The soap smelled like lavender, oatmeal, and chamomile; Deb was definitely spoiling her. Ksenia dipped her head under again, when Deb indicated she was done, and rested her head against the lip of the tub.

Even though she knew it was coming Ksenia still flinched when Deb ran her washcloth over Ksenia’s chest. Deb shook her head slightly, but quickly suppressed it as she moved on. Once she reached Ksenia’s waist, Deb handed the cloth to Ksenia. The one time Deb had tried to wash any lower, Ksenia had clenched her knees to her chest so tightly that her legs cramped. “Lovie?”

“Mm?” Ksenia glanced up from scrubbing a spot on her hip.

“Why is it that you don’t like being touched?” Deb asked, resting her hand on the edge of the tub. Ksenia froze for several heartbeats. She began to scrub the washcloth along her thigh, almost mechanically.

“I’ve had people try to touch me...in places I never wanted them to...in ways I never wanted them to…” Ksenia said quietly. “I told them to stop and they didn’t. I didn’t want it. They scared me. I was afraid - afraid of what they would do to me. I couldn’t stop them. Mam stopped them. And then -” Ksenia stopped and swallowed hard. “Mam, she said I wanted it. That I asked for it.” Ksenia dropped her hand from her thigh into the water. “She left me. I was competition, to her at least.”

Deb’s eyes flashed red for an instant. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “I see. And what was your mother’s name?”

“Inessa - wait, Deb, you’re not going hunting tonight, are you?” Ksenia grabbed Deb’s wrist, dripping water on to her hand. “Don’t bother with her. It’s not worth it.” Deb tilted her head to one side. “Besides, I bet she’d taste rotten,” Ksenia gave Deb a small sideways smile. “Can you get my feet again? They feel better when you rub them.”

“I will.” She took the washcloth Ksenia offered. “And I won’t seek her out, dearest. It wouldn’t do to attract attention so blatantly.” She scrubbed the bottom of Ksenia’s feet a little harder than she’d intended, making Ksenia giggle from the tickling sensation.

“Okay!” Ksenia laughed, pulling her foot back and swapping it for the other. Deb finished scrubbing and held out the towel for Ksenia to get out of the tub. Ksenia grimaced as she had to grab the edge of the tub to keep from slipping as she got out. Deb wrapped her up and sent her over to the bench as usual.

“Sit on the floor, and I’ll help you dry your hair,” Deb said, coming over with a second towel. Ksenia did as Deb said, leaning against the older woman’s legs. Deb folded Ksenia’s long dark hair in the towel, squeezing the water out along its length. Pulling a wide toothed comb from her pocket, Deb worked out all the tangles and combed the hair straight. She pushed Ksenia forward a bit and lifted three small sections of hair at the top of her head. As Deb braided, she added sections of hair from each side until all of Ksenia’s hair had been added into the braid, and kept going with a simple three-strand braid to the end of her hair.

“Sit tight a minute, lovie. I’ll be right back.” Deb disappeared and Ksenia leaned against the bench, yawning. The baths Deb gave always made her feel loose and warm. Deb reappeared with a bundle of fabric, and she unrolled it to reveal a delicately embroidered night shift and a pair of thick wool socks. Ksenia stood up to examine it; the neckline and sleeve hems had small lavender bows.

“It’s beautiful. For me?”

“Of course.” Deb motioned for Ksenia to put her arms up; she did, letting the towel drop as Deb slid the night shift over her head. “There you go,” Deb said, leaning back and showing her teeth in a broad smile. “You look lovely, like a flower!” Ksenia smiled, a little embarrassed. “Here’s your socks.” Deb handed them to Ksenia. “Go to your room and I’ll bring you supper and something for your hands.”

Ksenia shuffled down the hall to wait. Deb reappeared, carrying a plateful of food, a vial of suspiciously-colored liquid, and bandages. She handed Ksenia the vial first, setting the plate on a crate and the bandages on the floor nearby. Ksenia downed the thick, straw-colored liquid with a shudder - did they filter it through someone’s old socks? - and scooted forward to survey the food.

Clearly, Deb was in a mood to pamper her. A baked potato, still steaming, held a bounty of cheese, herbs, and thick cream. Several cuts of a roast lay next to a pile of butter-glossed peas, which were corralled by a thick slice of fresh bread. Deb had also brought a mug of the citrusy tea she usually gave Ksenia the morning after she’d fed on her. All were things Ksenia enjoyed; she dug into the potato with enthusiasm as Deb laid out her supplies, shaking her head slightly as she watched Ksenia eat.

Once Ksenia had eaten every last morsel of food - she’d even wiped the plate with the last of her bread to be sure - Deb took the dishes and brought back a pot of salve. Meticulously, Deb spread the oily, sharp-smelling concoction across Ksenia’s palms, even gently patting some between her fingers. A soft fluffy square of fabric covered the reddened skin that had been treated. Deb began to wind a long strip of bandage around Ksenia’s hand. “Too tight,” Ksenia said, pulling her hand back. Deb glanced down to the side and loosened the bandage, lightly squeezing the back of Ksenia’s hand. Securing the bandage, Deb repeated the wrapping on Ksenia’s other hand.

“Does that feel all right, lovie? Not too tight?” Deb asked.

Ksenia shook her head. “ ‘S fine,” she mumbled. “Thanks.” She yawned, laying down on her bed roll. Deb spread the blanket out over Ksenia, tucking it in at her feet. “Come back safe, ‘kay?” Ksenia said as she reached up for a hug. Deb slid her arms around the slender young woman and kissed her lightly on the temple. Ksenia yawned and rolled on to her side. Already the tingle of the burn had begun to fade, and Ksenia fell into a deep, dreamless sleep.

[Artemis Black]

Artemis left Ksenia at the Goose when they finished their first organized meal. He led his new crew back along the regular streets to the warehouse, enjoying the chatter and jokes along the way. He’d preferred to have kept Ksenia’s assistance for the remainder of the afternoon, but understood it was better to have her useful later when he might actually need her help rather than force her to take a small amount of inconvenience off his plate now.

Once they were back in the yard he took the team into the warehouse and described the plan to them. They were going to disassemble the upper floor and stairs, reinforce and replace any external supports as needed, and then await inspection. For his part, Jacobus took in all that was required and immediately started discussing with his team about the order of work.

Artemis interrupted them when there was a lull by clearing his throat. “Meals will be from the carts most days, I’ll get some credit chits with a few you all decide on. Milestones we celebrate at the Goose though, so keep that in mind,” he said, looking over the team to judge their reactions. They seemed generally pleased and unsurprised by what he’d shared so far.

“Now the rub, the only inner room I’ve got for now is my own and the rum tunnel,” he held up a hand as there were some surprised mutters. “You’re not going to sleep on the floor. First order is bunks, and I can take someone with me to buy them now.” They group seemed to be pacified at this addition and there were several seconds of silence before Lynwood stepped forward.

“I’m not doing much until we get all the tools Artemis,” he said, giving the thief a coy smile. Artemis gave the man a nod and turned away from him to start walking towards the warehouse doors. Several steps later and the toolmaster was there beside him. Artemis glanced over at the man, noting he was clearly being stared at with something not altogether unlike a muted hunger.

Lynwood wasn’t as large as much of the crew. His chest and arms were muscled from days of work, but without the bulk of constant heavy lifting. He also wasn’t taller than an average man, which made him short among the crew but still left him to tower over Artemis. His hair was a thick and shining auburn and his eyes were a watery green. He had a slightly plump face with a strong jaw with thin brows set above an understated nose. All together he was pleasing to look at, and was clearly interested.

Artemis gave himself a shake and blinked as he half missed a step. ‘What in the hells, you’ve got her, don’t get greedy,’ he silently chastised himself.

“So, Artemis, what do you do that you came into a place like that?” Lynwood asked for his opening gambit.

Artemis reacted instinctively, giving the man a broad grin and turning his head to look him in the eyes. He realized his mistake when he caught the faint blush in Lynwood’s cheeks. “I’m-” he cleared his throat, forcing his smile to fall away before continuing, “A specialist and several times businessman. I help people recover things, give them opportunities, and try to make my own stock better without leaving broken people behind,” he managed with a nod to himself. It was the first time he’d really considered out loud what he was besides a thief and killer.

“Specialist, eh? Other than what Miss Ksenia said-” Lynwood paused to slide Artemis a teasing look. “What are your specialties?”

“I have a knack for finding folks who are able and willing. Also, despite the Craftmistress’ teasing I do in fact have the control to do fine detail work,” Artemis said, blushing and breaking his eyes away from the man. ‘You’re going to get yourself into trouble,’ a part of his mind hissed. ‘But it’ll be worth it,’ another less helpful part replied immediately.

“Able and willing? Oh yes, I could see that,” Lynwood said, trailing his fingers down Artemis’s forearm. His fingers caught Artemis’s own briefly before Lynwood stepped ahead. “Maybe later you’ll show me your skills with those fingers,” he said, turning his head back to shoot Artemis a grin and a wink.

Artemis almost fell flat on his face as his foot came down an inch above where the ground was. He stumbled slightly but recovered. This afforded him just enough time to get his furious blush under control. He could feel the other man’s heat lingering on his fingers. It had felt so warm, he wanted to feel him again, to taste him. To see what he looked like when he lost control.

Artemis gave himself a ragged shake as he righted himself. “Let’s get the beds first, otherwise we’ll be strung up by the crew I imagine,” he said, trying anything he could think of to force his mind to abandon the idea of Lynwood groaning in pleasure.

“Beds first? How - conventional,” Lynwood said, smirking. “Can’t say I’ve ever said no to a dalliance in a dark alley, though,” he commented, licking his lips. “There’s a thousand ways we could be delayed, you know.”

Artemis felt himself being drug under and forced his will into place. He could play this game, he wasn’t some naive boy to be strung along with promises and glances. “I think, Lynwood, that we should at least get to the shop before we consider any sort of unscheduled stops,” he said, with a small hint of sharpness to his voice that was undone by the sparkle in his eyes. He liked to be hunted from time to time, to be wanted, to be needed and taken.

“Oh?” Lynwood asked. “Are you sure about that?” He flicked a glance toward the front of Artemis’s trousers. “Well, if you say so - Boss.” He adjusted his step to fall in with Artemis, his arm brushing against the other man’s skin very occasionally as they walked.

Artemis didn’t move away, relishing the flashes of heat each time their skin touched. He wouldn’t simply fall over himself, Lynwood would have to earn him, or not have him at all. Distracted as such, the remaining streets to the city watch surplus store passed quickly.

The building was squat and stone with no windows, signage, or even indentations except for a large heavily scarred iron door. Behind it, as if attempting to comically hide, was a two story warehouse that, even from the street, was clearly filled to the roof with goods. Artemis chuckled as he pulled open the heavy iron door and motioned for Lynwood to move inside.

As he passed, Lynwood let the back of his hand graze the front of Artemis’s trousers. Lynwood stopped a few steps away, shoving his hands into his pockets while looking at the interior. Lines of handcarts, wheelbarrows, and other small carts ran along one wall; a counter stood facing the door with a bored looking woman behind it. On the wall behind the counter were several wagons of varying sizes, including a few that were best described as a platform with wheels. There were double doors, leading back into the warehouse he supposed, but no other exits.

Artemis shivered and groaned softly when he felt the heat against the thin cloth of his trousers. The sensation lingered, seeping into his small clothes, and he felt extremely uncomfortable until he shifted his clothing around. Then his eyes caught Lynwood’s backside, outlined by the taut fabric of his trousers.

He gave himself a shake and locked his eyes onto the woman behind the counter. She looked like she’d trade near anything in the world to not be sitting behind the broad wooden desk for another moment. Artemis flashed her a smile as he did his best not to waddle up to her.

“Hello, we’re looking for some bunks, and a wagon to take them after. Anything like that on the inventory?” he asked her with a hint of excitement.

She raised her eyebrows at him for a moment before lifting a large ledger from underneath her and placing it heavily onto the countertop. Several quick and practiced flips of pages and she sent her finger sliding down a page filled with minute text, much of it crossed out or corrected. She stopped a third of the way down and tapped. “Says there’s twenty available, work as double or triple. Aisle six, bay four, ground level,” she said as if reciting the days weather report to school children. Artemis nodded to the woman, clearly having been dismissed and moved through the double doors into the densely packed warehouse.

Lynwood followed Artemis into the warehouse, which held stacks of partially assembled items with a finished one for display. He counted down the number of aisles as they passed. Reaching the sixth, the two men turned and moved down, looking at the small placards for the bay numbers. They started with fifteen and moved down. Their destination ended up being in a sort of alcove only around ten paces from the outside wall.

“I’d wager this is what we’re looking for, boss,” Lynwood said, gesturing at a double bunk bed to one side. “Isn’t it,” he said, his voice dropping as he moved to push Artemis against the end of the beds. His eyes glittered with triumph as he shoved his and Artemis’s hips against the wood. His prey trapped, Lynwood put a hand under Artemis’s chin and tipped it up.

Lynwood pressed his lips to Artemis’s, teasingly, before slipping his tongue into the shorter man’s mouth. Artemis felt his mind go blank as warmth flooded his body. He whimpered softly and sucked eagerly at Lynwood’s tongue. His hands, not knowing what to do, opened and closed repeatedly, wanting to grip and stroke the larger man.

Hearing Artemis, Lynwood reached down and grasped one of Artemis’s hands. “Tell me, are your fingers the only skillful thing about you?” he spoke into Artemis’s ear, letting his breath tickle the curves there. Lynwood lifted their grasped hands and slid them into his trousers, guiding Artemis.

Artemis curled his fingers into Lynwood’s skin, feeling the flesh burn beneath him. He was losing his mind with need even before the man took control. He gave in to the flood of desire, and gripped Lynwood’s hips, spinning them around so that he was in the open area. Then he slid down, pulling his hands outward and dropping the man’s trousers as he crouched in front of him.

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Sighing, Lynwood braced himself against the end of the bunk bed. Every limb felt heavy, but he took the time to put himself back to rights. Artemis stood, his own trousers tented prominently as he wiped at his mouth and cheek. He then stepped in and wrapped the larger man in a firm hug.

“Don’t think that was common, or will ever happen again,” he said speaking into Lynwood’s chest. Then he stepped back and snared Lynwood’s eyes with his own. He held him there, pinned for a moment, before motioning at the bunk beds. “This is what we wanted. Can stack them three high once we’ve made the bunkhouse, but doubled or singled is fine for the hallway.”

“Uh. Sure. Right. How many? There’s seven of the crew - one for you too?” Lynwood stumbled over his words, still reeling from the ragged burst of pleasure he’d just experienced.

“Let’s get an even ten. Less needed after we get the first few crafters in and we can just store them downstairs,” Artemis said immediately before snagging a small wood token attached to the assembled bunk bed. “Anything else the crew needs until we can get to inspection?” he asked looking at Lynwood with a neutral expression. ‘What the fuck are you doing, why would you even-’ his thoughts shouted at him. ‘Getting what you need, to be desired, loved, even for a moment,’ the remainder of his thoughts replied back with a cold and quiet certainty.

“Benches and a table, at least,” Lynwood replied haltingly. “I can’t think of anything else.” ‘Anything else but that mouth,’ he thought. The image of Artemis bent over a table, eager and flushed, swam into his mind and he shook his head fiercely to clear it. ‘Don’t think...that will ever happen again,’ Artemis’ voice said in his head.

“Right then, let’s see if we can just ask about that up front. We’ll need a wagon to carry this all, and an ox, unless you’re keeping another horse in there,” he said, batting at Lynwood’s leg and giving him a teasing grin.

Lynwood nodded dumbly. Artemis had sounded final with his announcement of their dalliance being a one-time event, but his flirtation continued unabated. He glanced over and noticed the obvious distortion of Artemis’ trousers. “Did you want - to take care of that?” he said, stumbling over his words.

Artemis shook his head sharply, not saying anything in response for several seconds. “Maybe later, if things work out,” he finally added softly before striding towards the front of the warehouse.

[Artemis Black]

Artemis and Lynwood returned to the East Hall workyard atop a squeaky wagon loaded with disassembled furniture and led by a trundling ox that was likely in its twilight years. The two had joked and talked extensively on the slow journey back once Lynwood decided this was just how things were.

Lynwood found Artemis to be sharp, quick to smile, and always eager with a joke, flirtation, or witticism. Artemis found the toolmaster to be detail-oriented with a strong sense to consider his words before and after he spoke them. It made their impassioned tryst all the more intriguing. He’d managed to pull him so far out of his shell that he spoke before he thought.

When the wagon came to a stop Jacobus gave a shout to his crew and they wandered out. Based on the sweat on several brows, as well as the toolbelts, Artemis guessed the tools were accounted for. “Foreman, I have furniture to assemble, highest priority,” he said, giving the man a grin. “Also, it seems your toolmaster has been derelict in his duties unless those are not tools belonging to the crew,” he added giving Lynwood a bump with his shoulder and a wink.

Jacobus clapped his hands together and pointed to three of his team before sending the ones carrying tools back inside. Then he turned to give Lynwood a raised eyebrow. “Impossible Mister Black, he’s got the finest hand for inspecting tools I know,” he said with a hint of a smile behind a false frown.

Artemis laughed loudly and nodded back. “Perhaps he does, we’ll see. Put him to work Foreman,” he said as he hopped down and moved over to the warehouse. He wasn’t going to be much help to the larger crewmembers emptying the wagon and he needed to talk to Jacobus about the materials orders before he headed back to the Velvet Goose for dinner. So, instead of making more trouble, he leaned against the inner warehouse wall and looked over the crew already at work.

The team looked to be working at taking apart the upstairs and clearing the debris all in one effort. Anything they thought was salvageable was being piled in the center of the room, everything else was being tossed unceremoniously onto the floor against the far wall. Artemis heard Lynwood and Jacobus talking quickly for several moments before the toolmaster moved to walk past him.

He snapped his hand out and let it caress the man’s stomach before lifting it to casually scratch his ear. Lynwood, to his credit, didn’t even falter - though he did wink without turning to look at Artemis. Then he was in the warehouse, looking over a pile of tools and equipment.

Jacobus stopped a few steps away from Artemis and cleared his throat after a moment to get his attention. “The materials, Boss?” he asked in the concerned but respectful tone of a man working for his team.

Artemis nodded and looked to the man. “Yes, do you know a preferred supplier? If not I have several that I can get credit with without an issue. I’d rather you or your team not be forced to wander around with coins clinking unless absolutely necessary,” he said nodding his head towards the working crew.

Jacobus rubbed at the back of his head for a moment frowning in thought. “I know some places, but they’ll be the kind that do leftovers and second runs. That alright with you?” the foreman asked him with no obvious opinion.

“As long as you’d be willing to work standing under it for months I’ve got no issue. In fact it likely lines up with our methods a bit cleaner. Can you get me credit with them, or do I need to send the Craftmistress?” Artemis asked raising an eyebrow.

“I can likely bullydog them into a good credit line tonight as long as you can get someone by tomorrow to pay them at least something,” Jacobus said

Artemis nodded and clapped his forearm to the man’s, letting the hard form of his dagger bump the man’s exposed flesh. “Let’s go with that then, and I’ll make sure someone is over first thing. If you don’t see me, tell the Craftmistress to handle it,” he said, noticing Jacobus’ slight flinch at the indication Artemis was actively armed in the way of thieves and thugs.

Jacobus gave Artemis’ arm a squeeze back and moved back to the workyard to shout motivational insults at his team unloading the large wagon. Artemis turned and walked down into his private room, giving the crew a wave as some of them turned to look after him. He moved as quickly as he could to change into his finer clothes, saving time by only loading up half his daggers. He wasn’t expecting trouble at the Goose, and he had to move quick if he didn’t want to abandon Cece and her man.

⁂

Artemis swaggered into the extra private upstairs tables at the Goose. As opposed to all the other booths, these large round tables were set aside in a separate space with thick walls and rugs to dampen the sound. If you strained a bit you could still hear the rowdy crowd downstairs carousing and singing. If you tried to ignore it the entire thing faded to a soft background rumble even when a group resorted to whispers.

He spotted Cece immediately, and grinned when she didn’t notice him. She was talking to a caramel skinned man with a distinctly thuggish feel about him. He had a shock of curly grey salt and pepper hair atop a handsome face with dark hazel eyes. Every time he opened his mouth his teeth shone brightly against his almost hidden lips.

Based on the faint irritation on Cece’s face he imagined she was regaling the man with her day full of Artemis’ annoyances. Taking this as his cue the thief strode up to the table and slid into a chair beside the woman. She looked over and gave him a slight frown before motioning with her hand.

“Johnathan, this is the troublemaker himself. Artemis, this is the man who’s won my heart,” she said giving Johnathan a bright smile.

Johnathan gave Artemis a smile of his own and held out his hand. “Cece was just telling me about your insistence that we join you for a high quality meal. What is it you do these days, Mr. Black?” the man asked, his voice smooth and pleasing.

Artemis shook Johnathan’s hand with a firm grip and gave him a smirk. “I’m a businessman now if you believe it. Own a building and have a work crew. The whole thing’s just a couple blocks into the East District there,” he said before patting Cece on the arm. “I also have a hobby of annoying pretty women and getting into trouble with pretty men. How about you?”

Johnathan laughed and Artemis immediately understood how he’d caught Cece’s attention. It sounded so kind and glittered in his eyes without losing its sharpness. “I work for silversmith on the far side of the South District, and am apparently a con man if I’m to be anything else. You see, I stole her heart, but she won’t tell me how,” he said, giving Cece’s hand a loving squeeze.

Artemis felt like he was intruding on something very special as he looked at the two of them eyeing one another. “A silversmith you say. Could I perhaps tempt you with a business opportunity?” Artemis said and Cece’s eyes immediately went wide.

“None of those, I’ve heard the stories Artemis,” she said, shaking her head at him.

“I meant the legitimate sort, but I’m open to suggestions from what you’ve heard,” he replied giving her his best grin.

Deborah took that moment to appear carrying a bottle of middle wine and three cups. “Arty, you finally show up just as I’m getting ready to drink your share,” she said giving him a devious smile as she moved over and set the cups down.

“For tonight, we have a bold, fruity red wine, with an oaky finish,” Deborah said, displaying the bottle briefly before setting it on the table to uncork it. She produced a corkscrew and removed the cork with a faint pop. Pouring the wine into the cups, Deborah handed one each to Cece and Johnathan. “Dinner will be a mushroom-stuffed wild boar roast with black truffle sauce, accompanied by haricots verts and sauteed mushrooms,” she said. Keeping a hand over the remaining cup, Deborah said, “Do let me know if there’s anything you need.” She picked up the cup and started to turn away from the table. Artemis shook his head at her, before she smirked and set the cup down in front of him.

“I swear, woman,” he said as he waggled his cup at her. “Now, before I forget. Johnathan, I’m opening a freeman’s hall with a direct route to the Goose here for a limited set of renters. Any way I could interest you in stopping by once the place is ready to take folks in?”

Johnathan took an appreciative sip of his wine and looked to Cece, who seemed more confused than anything else. “I think I could manage a visit. I’d be interested to see the place at the very least,” he said lifting his cup to Artemis slightly.

“Wonderful, now tell me all the secrets about this lovely woman you’ve ensnared so we can laugh over them while we eat like the rich nobles,” he said returning Johnathan’s raised cup with his own.

⁂

Artemis staggered slightly as he took the last step into the rum runner’s tunnel beneath the Goose. Among the table they’d finished off two bottles of wine. He’d managed to add four mugs of ale to his own count as he grew ever more morose. There were stories and jokes to lift his spirits, but as the night went on the small glances, smiles, and caresses between Cece and Johnathan had worn him down. He wanted those things, the easy gentle warmth with another person, the comfort of knowing they were there. He had half a mind to stumble his way all the way to the Hart, but dismissed the idea with a grunt and a frown. Even if Katarya was there she’d likely not appreciate him showing up in the dead of night reeking of alcohol.

He bounced off the wall slightly as he left the sputtering torchlight behind at a reasonably paced rolling walk. He was going to get to his room, collapse onto his scratchy mattress, and angrily sleep until he was forced awake. He’d likely be even grumpier when the hangover came due in the morning, but that was future Artemis’ problem. That guy deserved whatever he got, not being here helping to deal with the coldness and loneliness.

He spotted the faint flicker of torchlight ahead and moved slightly away from the wall to allow himself to spare his shoulder further scrapes as he swayed his way forward. He vaguely wondered why there were still torches if the crew was supposed to be asleep, but then realized that was a silly thing to think. As he got closer the light revealed a solid wall of boxes blocking his path. Artemis came to a stop in front of the neatly piled crates and glared at them. He wasn’t certain how he was supposed to get past the obstruction and he knew he didn’t have the thoughts to spare on figuring it out.

He angrily punched the center box and jumped as it scooted forward several inches. He squinted at the crate suspiciously and gave it a slow push. The box, clearly very empty and light, slid out of the way with only mild scraping protest. Several moments later Artemis was on the far side of the crate wall in an area only lit by the light filtering through his new door. He looked down the hall, remembering he was perhaps another thirty meters from the iron bars. He started to shamble his way before stopping suddenly and shoving the door box back into a vague sense of place. When he was done the hall was very dark again and he had a small sense of satisfaction as he began staggering further down the hall.

He heard snoring several minutes later and came to a stop just short of crashing headlong into a new wooden obstacle. He wasn’t certain what he was in front of and so he groped around with his hands for several moments. Eventually his addled mind decided he was standing next to a bunk, and that if he just moved around a bit he could go to sleep right there. No sense in waking everyone up trying to get through the heavy barred door at the end of the hall.

Grinning at his own intelligence, Artemis shuffled around the side of the bunk end and flopped down onto the thin mattress with only a minor thump of his head on the upper bunk. He grunted and rolled over to curl up at the edge of the mattress. He hated being shoved against the wall, he needed to be able to escape quickly if something happened. Then with only a few shifts and adjustments he feel into a fitful drunken sleep.

⁂

Amalia woke up before dawn as she always had. She’d actually enjoyed the improvement of a mattress and a bedframe for the night. ‘Much more comfortable than a thin blanket on the floor, though the snoring hasn’t changed much,’ she mused remembering her nights prior at the dockside bunkhouses. Money had been tight after the accident where she busted her shoulder. The months it took to heal hadn’t left her with much of a job and rare prospects coming into the cold winter.

She reached her hand out to find the edge of her bunk and froze as her fingers found the warm cloth of someone else. “What the fuck?” she groaned softly as she forced her eyes open. If one of the idiots on the crew had gotten drunker than she thought and tried something she was going to beat them senseless. Her vision cleared and she glared daggers at the small form of Artemis, curled up at the very edge of her bed. She’d heard the story from Lynwood, fool couldn’t keep his tongue when he was drinking so much, but she hadn’t figured the new boss to be the kind to go after all sorts.

Despite the knowledge of his sordid affairs, he did look cute all curled up, in a sort of helpless animal kind of way. After a few moments she grunted unhappily, rolled her eyes, and laid back down to stare at the back of his head. She wasn’t going to push him out of the way just to go stand upstairs in the cold without anything to do. “You’re a broken little thing, aren’t you, Boss?” she whispered quietly before closing her eyes to try and sneak in as much extra sleep as she could.

[Ksenia]

Ksenia picked up her mug of tea, letting the steam caress her face. Even the warmth of the mug felt invigorating against her palms, despite the burns under the bandages. She took a long indulgent sip.

Deb came out of the hallway, humming to herself. She paused to wrap Ksenia in her arms and hug her tightly before she moved on. “Have a good night, last night?” Ksenia asked.

“Good enough,” Deb replied, stacking ingredients on one of the prep tables. “Did you sleep well, dearest?” She slid a sideways smile to the seamstress.

“I don’t know if it was the lavender or whatever was in that nasty tonic you gave me, but I doubt I’ve ever slept so soundly before in my entire life.” Ksenia held her mug in both hands and lifted it to drink. She sighed contentedly and set it down. “What have we got for breakfast?”

“I could make you an omelet, if you like.” Deb gestured at the stack of eggs sitting on the counter.

Ksenia bit her lip. “Only if it’s not a problem,” she said, softly.

“It’s never a problem for you dearest, and if it were, I’d fix it,” Deb said, collecting the eggs and a pan. She took a plate and filled it with meat and vegetables from last night.

“May I have cheese?” Ksenia asked hopefully.

“If you go get it yourself,” responded Deb, who was stirring the eggs. Ksenia found a slice of cheese on a shelf and brought it over to where Deb was cooking. Skillfully, Deb assembled the omelet, catching it at the peak of its fluffiness, and sliding it onto the plate. Ksenia took the offered plate and gave Deb a one-armed hug.

Deb made fantastic omelets, despite not being able to taste what she made, thought Ksenia as she tried to pace herself. The temptation to eat the entire thing in huge mouthfuls was terribly strong, and she forced herself to set down her fork and have a sip of tea.

“You’ll come back for breakfast now and then, won’t you? I doubt you’d listen to Artemis even if I asked him to keep an eye on you,” Deb said, setting down the cleaned pan she’d used.

“I’ll try to, more often than not. And no, I probably wouldn’t,” Ksenia said. She’d tried not to think about that aspect of moving out of the Goose. Deb would no longer be only a few paces away to chase away the nightmares or bask in her warmth as they talked during Deb’s breaks. “I’ll miss you, and you’ll have me all to yourself at ‘dinner’,” Ksenia said, with a small smile.

“What’s this about you and boys, by the way?” Deb asked, moving over to wrap her arms around Ksenia’s shoulders. “I imagine Artemis was somewhat joking, but I still want to hear the story.”

“Oh, that.” Ksenia wrinkled her nose and looked up at Deb. Artemis asked me to find some leatherworkers who might be able to make him new armor, and then asked me to come along when he spoke to them. Said we needed to get them to dinner, talk about the work and his crafters’ hall.” She sighed, slumping against Deb’s arm.

“The only way I’ve ever seen someone convince a man is by being a flirt; That’s what my mother did, so that’s what I did. Artemis acted like I’d all but undressed in front of them and asked me why I’d done it, the flirting, when I could have convinced them with my skill.” She snorted. “My skills, right. I told him he needed to take lead then, since I didn’t know what else to do.”

Ksenia huffed, remembering the edge to Artemis’s tone. “We got the two leatherworkers he was interested in to dinner - the first one kept trying to flirt with me - but I think it ended well enough. They’re both skilled, and sounded interested in the hall, at least.”

She frowned. “Artemis keeps introducing me as his Craftmistress of the hall, but he never asked if I wanted to be, he just dumped it on me saying it was because the hall wouldn’t exist without me.” She exhaled slowly, shaking her head.

“The whole thing just reminded me of my mother and how she’d play with men, using them to get what she wanted. I had to follow along, keep up whatever lie she’d told them - that I was the orphan child of a friend or a relative, her lady’s maid - and play whatever role she needed.” Ksenia stared at the table for a moment, not really seeing the grain and knots of the wood in front of her. “I guess she used me, too, in her games.”

Deb rubbed her shoulders. “I see it was a long day. Perhaps you’re not giving yourself enough credit either. Arty doesn’t lie to people he considers friends.”

Ksenia tugged the plate closer and cut the remaining omelet into large bites, eating them quickly. “I’ll check in with him at the ware- at the hall and see if there’s errands he needs me to run for him,” Ksenia said, washing down her food with gulps of tea. “I’ve got to pack my things too, so I can move them tonight.”

She turned and hugged Deb, resting her cheek on Deb’s shoulder. “Thank you for breakfast.”

Ksenia turned to leave and Deb stopped her. “We should have dinner, the three of us, some time. Despite how much we all talk to each other, I don’t think we’ve sat down for a meal together.”

“Maybe. We’ll have to find time.” Ksenia moved out into the alleyway and then down the stairs to the (not-so) secret passage. She came out into a building alive with the crew at work. Artemis stood to one side, talking to Jacobus.

“Morning, Artemis. How’s work going?” Ksenia raised her hand to flick a wayward strand of hair out of her face.

“Good morning, Craftmistress,” Jacobus greeted her with a smile.

Artemis frowned intensely at Ksenia for several long moments. “Two questions, why are you here, and what in Cecilia’s bountiful tits did you do to your hands?” he asked her, pointing at the bandages with sharp motions.

“One, I came by to see if you needed me to run errands or anything, since you’ve said I’m Craftmistress and all. Two, um,” Ksenia hid her hands behind her skirts. “I may have gone shopping for something and wasn’t as able to carry it back as well as I thought?” She gave him a sheepish look.

Artemis halted what had likely been a bit of a tirade. “Fair point, this is why you’re in charge and I just look pretty,” he said, using his hands to concede the point. “I’m guessing you’ve decided to delay your exam then, if your willing to just ruin your hands. I hope O’Dell doesn’t mock you too much.”

“Bhelest’s balls, I forgot about the exam with all the running about!” Ksenia’s eyes widened. “I’ll have to wait then, there’s nothing for it even with Deb’s concoctions.” Her shoulders slumped. “I’m sorry I let you down-"

“None of that,” he said walking over and gripping her in a tight hug. “Foreman, we’ll be back at lunch. Then we’ll visit the bank and your suppliers. Please manage until then,” Artemis said giving a nod to Jacobus and then taking Ksenia by the arms and walking her out into the workyard. “We’re going to visit O’Dell and have a chat about your studies. You’re not going to be apologizing, submissive, or regretting yourself one bit until we’re done and dusted. Do you understand Craftmistress Ksenia?” he said, snapping the last off in a tone the half-elf often heard from Chef in the kitchens.

Ksenia blinked; she’d never heard Artemis use that tone before. “I’m - er, well, I didn’t realize until I was halfway home it was too heavy, but I need to go back for the other two-”

“Fair, explain as we walk, and it best be a good one or I’ll slap enough honey on your hands you’ll never get your fingers open again,” he said, his voice more even and friendly as he herded her down the street.

“Yesterday - I didn’t want to sit in my room, I’m - um. I decided to go to Miss Turley’s for bedding since I’ve got to move out of the Goose tonight and I can’t use their stuff anymore. I found a decent enough mattress form - I’ve got to stitch up a few rips - but she had three full sacks of fleece!” Ksenia said, her eyes shining a bit, gleeful at her find. “I couldn’t afford but one, and probably a good thing, since I had trouble carrying the form and the sack back.” She looked at her hands guiltily.

“I need to go back for those other two sacks of fleece, but I don’t know how I’d get them back without - this,” she said, holding her hands up.

“Woman, I wonder about you more often than I likely should,” he said giving her a wink. “And what’s so special about fleece? If it’s good we’ll just pay for it on the way up and grab it with the wagon this afternoon,” he said pointing at the vehicle still parked to the side of the workyard. “I’ve got it for another three days before it costs a cent more.”

“What’s special - Artemis, haven’t you heard that fleece makes the best mattress stuffing?” she got out before he chimed in.

“I thought that was Deborah, but go on,” he said quickly.

Ignoring him, she continued, “I doubt the sack I got will fill the mattress form completely, and I was going to offer you the remains of the second sack, and the third if I could get it.” She frowned, remembering. “Oh, and Miss Turley prefers if you come with me, apparently. I think she might give me a better deal if you do.”

“Of course she does, she enjoys the drama I think. Fair, and I guess that gets us to beds. Do you want to be top or bottom bunk, or can I convince you to cuddle?” he asked poking her gently in the side as he turned to take a side street that would put them at the Discerning Maiden without many more adjustments.

“Bunk?” she frowned. “Oh, you got beds yesterday? For the crew, I’m guessing.” He nodded. “As for - cuddling -” she forced the word out. “I don’t think that’s a good idea. Your lovely lady would probably turn me into a toad or at the least use my guts as garters.” She shivered. “Not to mention, I don’t always sleep soundly. I - sometimes I have nightmares and wake up screaming. I’d hate to startle you awake and find I’ve sprouted a knife,” she said apologetically.

“I can fix that by just not wearing them, and I’m pretty sure I’ve not slept without a nightmare of my own for weeks, but up to you in the end. If Kat can’t understand wanting to sleep warm then I doubt we’d last long anyway,” he shrugged and looked ahead to the coming street before taking a hard left down a smaller cut through.

“Still, I-” she sighed. “Maybe if it’s absolutely freezing,” she said.

“I’m not going to bully you into it Kessy, but if you’re willing the offer will always be there. I can even promise to face away and not say anything untoward,” he said, giving her a grin.

Ksenia stared at him. “Are you capable of even doing that? Not saying anything untoward, I mean.”

“No idea, but it’s always good to learn new things,” he replied as they stepped out into the street a shop down from the Maiden.

Ksenia chuckled at his quip, before remembering she’d offered to teach him. “Reminds me, did you want me to help you - with what we talked about before? I can look for some books and things that’d help,” she said, trying not to expose his illiteracy to anyone who might be listening.

“Oh yeah, I found a simple one, called Letters Fun and managed to get through most of it. It’s definitely missing some important bits. I still am not a fan of Cat and Kat. What are those ones called anyway?” he said looking over at her as he opened the door to the clothier.

Ksenia tipped her head toward the counter. “Later?” she mouthed.

“Oh, good plan. Don’t think I’ve ever said no to someone saying that either,” he said, looking around the room for the mythical fleece bags.

Ksenia rolled her eyes and bonked him with her shoulder. “Last time, they were in the back here,” she said, pushing her way through the racks.

“Hello Miss Turley, I’ve brought back a lovely lady. She’s my mistress now,” he said, letting the words hang and then continuing just as Ksenia started to indignantly respond. “Of crafts. She’s a great seamstress!”

“On second thought maybe I should just stuff you into the mattress form!” Ksenia growled quietly.

“You would not be the first to promise such,” he said following her before halting and picking up a terribly broad black felt hat. “Look, I’m a pirate,” he said, swaggering about some.

“Close enough, I suppose, and why am I completely unsurprised?” She threw her hands up and continued trying to get to the back. “You know, you keep telling people I’m Craftmistress, basically told them before me even!”

“That’s because, despite all the annoyance I cause, you know I have talents. And I accept the point. Would you happen to know any other qualified candidates? Are you keeping them in that neat pocket you have?” he asked, leaning over as Ksenia searched the shelves.

“Not besides Mr. O’Dell himself, and a little warning would have been nice. I almost didn’t know you were referring to me the first time. And it’s just a pocket, like any housewife probably wears,” she said, puzzled. She found a large sack tied up and began trying to work the knot open.

“O’Dell literally took a slavery debt to get a shop in the North District. I doubt I could convince him even at bladepoint. I do apologize for hoisting the responsibility on you, but you’ve taken to it rather well when you’re not complaining how underqualified you are,” he said, following her lead and deftly unknotting several sacks to search. He was looking for something that was sheeplike, or at least that was his best idea. “Also, how many housewives do you think I’ve shared more than five words with?”

Ksenia snorted at him. “You? Considering your exploits, it’s not the five words I’d think you shared!” She looked over at the untied sacks and grimaced at her own stubbornly tied one. “Those two over there look right,” she pointed.

He moved out of her way to let her confirm. “Oh idols, yes, please, more, don’t stop,” he said counting off on his fingers. “I was wrong, it’s seven, and if these are what we want then we can pay and move on.”

Ksenia bowed her head and laughed. “Figures.” She picked up the ends of the ties and looked at her hands. “I’m -” She sighed. “Can you tie these back for me?”

“Of course, heard that one a lot too,” he said as he moved over and quickly tied the two sacks closed. “Anything else?” he added as he hefted one and grunted. “These are stupidly unwieldy,” he said as the entire sack tried to flow out of his grip.

“That would, in fact, be why my hands are in the state they’re in,” Ksenia pointed out. She bent and pulled the other sack over her shoulder.

“Put that down right now or I swear on Deb,” he said, glaring at her.

She looked at him questioningly. “But we need to get them to the front to pay, and I can lift one, at least.”

“Idols take you for being foolish, I can come back and get it. They won’t disappear from here to there and if you hurt your hands even more I won’t even get you back home before I’m forced to murder you out of annoyance,” he replied shaking his head.

“O-oh,” she stuttered and dropped the sack. It bounced slightly on the floor.

“I’m not going to actually murder you doofus,” he said rolling his eyes. “Deb would suck me dry, and not the fun kind, and then Kat would have to fight Robert to see who gets to berate my soul during the weekend.”

“Artemis, can you maybe not talk about killing me, and so casually?” Ksenia squirmed uncomfortably.

“Sure, sorry. Force of habit. Lots of people joke about the sort of thing when it’s bread or blood. Especially with winter rearing its ugly bitter head,” he said frowning and giving her an apologetic smile as he dropped the fleece-filled sack onto the counter.

Miss Turley eyed him with a smirk and looked to Ksenia. “He’s a stallion, but you keep a hold of him girl. He’ll do you right and the bucking can be nice,” she said without a hint of humor. “It’ll be ten copper for the pair, given I can imagine what they’re for now. You should have said something,” she said giving Ksenia a wink.

Ksenia flushed bright red. “I-I-” she stammered.

“She’s not my woman, and you know it, you dirty old hag,” Artemis said giving Miss Turley a grin. “Leave her be, she’s got enough trouble without people thinking she has to deal with my boundless energy at night too,” he added and moved to pick up the second sack.

“You sound like my husband before he managed to sneak the ring on my finger. Keep it up and I’ll expect the same,” Miss Turley said before laughing heartily.

Ksenia hid her face in her hands and shook her head. She was a little mortified - but also amused. Artemis and Miss Turley’s banter would have been funnier if she hadn’t been the topic of it, though. “She’s not completely wrong about the fleece, you know,” she mumbled as Artemis returned with the sack.

He snorted and dropped the second sack onto the counter. “We’ll grab them on the way back later today. Don’t try and sell them off to some poor sap in the meantime,” he said and grabbed Ksenia around the waist. “Come now, we must away before this evil woman turns you into a beet,” he said, dragging her out of the shop.

Ksenia couldn’t help laughing at Artemis’s silly demeanor. “Oh no, whatever will we do? Wait for a handsome prince to come save us?” She giggled, smiling. “Then you could steal his horse and ride away into the sunset!”

“What if, and stop me if you’ve had the same idea, we steal his horse, ride him, and then ride away into the sunset?” Artemis countered as they started off towards O’Dells.

[Ksenia]

When Artemis held the door for Ksenia to enter the Fine Gentleman’s Attire he braced himself for O’Dell’s reaction. He was secretly hoping for some sort of scathing witticism, but he didn’t want to place all his bets on it. There was also the soft side for his students he had and so there might simply be what the haberdasher called a ‘lessons learned’ speech.

Inside the shop the haberdasher was making quick precise markings on a ledger and sliding token representations of coin around. Ksenia walked up to him, but tried to hide her hands behind her back like a scullery maid caught with her fingers in the larder.

“Good morning, Mr. O’Dell,” she said, bowing her head slightly. Artemis grinned and took her arm in his hand to tug out to her side.

O’Dell’s eyes snapped to her bandaged hand and he frowned slightly, setting down his pen and coming around the counter with quick graceful strides. “Goodness Miss Ksenia, what in the world happened to your delicate hands?” he asked, picking up the arm Artemis had exposed.

“She decided to try and lug far too many things across the east district without asking for help,” Artemis added as O’Dell shook his head in mild distress.

“I do hope you’ve not done anything permanent. You must not treat yourself so carelessly,” he said, letting her arm go. “I take it then I have the opportunity to teach you a few more things before your examination?”

“As I can’t take the exam currently, I suppose so,” Ksenia replied.

“Fortunately, you’re more than competent in your skills; however, the names of various styles and pieces we will need to drill. You do have to be able to demonstrate competency in skills. Generally, one takes in items made under the tutelage of a Master,” O’Dell explained.

“The point of the exam is to show I have the skills I need to be a competent crafter, right? They’ll want to see finished work, I assume, and I could use a new, nicer dress, since Mr. Black here-” she pointed at Artemis. “Has appointed me Craftmistress of his new hall.” Ksenia exhaled. “My usual clothes don’t make me look very, ah- in charge, and I could use a bit of armor, so to speak.”

Artemis waved at the mention of his name and then returned to lightly petting a pile of velvet black fabric resting below a merchants split-brim of the same material. He marvelled at the delicateness of the fabric, clearly designed to be worn by someone who only heard of the streets and rain as tales from their servants.

“Yes, though understand the intent is to prove not only that you can construct the required garment or accessory, but that you can also explain the pieces, their construction, and their purpose to the proctor,” Mr. O’Dell said to Ksenia with an even tone. “You must be able to explain the rationale behind your choices in fabric, of ornamentation, and any particular modifications.”

“I understand. I was thinking about a long dress, gathered waist, long sleeves, pintucks on the bodice, and possibly ruffles on the hem. I should probably plan on a hat and possibly a bag of some sort as well,” Ksenia said thoughtfully. “I found a length of aubergine wool, a little heavier than suiting weight, at a second-hand shop, that I think would work well, especially as we’re moving into colder weather.”

“That sounds suitable; do you have the fabric at hand?” Mr. O’Dell asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I’m s-” Ksenia stopped, glanced guiltily at Artemis and started over. “It’s currently back at the Goose with my things. I can go get it now, if you like.”

“That’s not necessary. I will ask that you stay here during your training - at least three full days - so that you may be at hand and we won’t be restricted by your needing to return to the Goose,” Mr. O’Dell said.

“But-”

“I really must insist. Not withstanding your penchant for getting into disadvantageous situations, having you here is far more convenient for both of us.” Mr. O’Dell crossed his arms over his chest. “I trust there will be no further objections, Miss Ksenia.”

“No, Mr. O’Dell,” Ksenia said meekly. “I would ask that we begin tomorrow morning. I need to move my belongings from the Goose as my time there is finished. When would you like for me to arrive in the morning?”

“You needn’t be here at sunup, but do try to be early,” he replied. “There’s no point in wasting a day of instruction. I may also have you oversee the work of my apprentices, as you may wish to think about taking your own.”

“I don’t think I’m ready for that yet,” Ksenia said. Seeing the gleam in Artemis’s eye, she held up her hand. “Not that I don’t think I would be capable, Mr. Black, but I would like to have my workroom set up and establish myself, before looking for apprentices.”

"Oh I wasn’t planning to rush you. I certainly know the troubles of suddenly having students of a sort. Though yours will likely tend to get stabbed less often," he said, not looking away from the hat. "Could I commission one of these in a more reasonable fabric? My head gets rather cold without my armor and I'm beginning to think people won't take secondhand fisherman's clothes seriously," he said, lifting the cap and also pointing at his patched tunic.

“Once I’m past the exam, certainly,” Ksenia said. “I’ll need you to come with me to buy the fabrics for the hat and whatever you want for clothing. Maybe you could put my commission fees toward my rent?”

"I'll be sure to add it to your tab. Speaking of, need to get a good ledger book soon. Dash, can I talk to you about this month's payment? I'm thinking of using it for leverage and wanted to talk the logistics," Artemis said as he returned the cap to its display and walked over to stand by the counter.

Ksenia looked over the shelves as the two men talked. She knew what would be on them for the most part, but she hadn’t been in the shop for several days. Trailing her fingertips over the wools, she moved past to look at trims. There were some notions in her room still, but she’d earmarked them for Artemis’s silk.

There was a lovely black velvet ribbon that was new, but nothing else. Idly, she opened the button drawers. There was a string of seven small mother-of-pearl buttons in one; in another, metal and glass cabochons shone brightly in the light. Peering into all of the drawers, she found eight flat purple buttons that she thought would match the wool she’d found. Ksenia gathered them up and decided to ask Mr. O’Dell to hold them for her; she could check the colors when she had the wool.

Mr. O’Dell seemed quite open to the idea of his monthly loan payments being used to fund capital investment into Artemis’ own dealings. He immediately dove into the details and logistics with the man. They’d figured out that an initial three months would be a good start. It wouldn’t place too great a burden on Artemis to ensure repayment, but would allow for a hefty starting fund to ensure the East Hall could become a place where crafters would gladly settle and pay rent and Artemis could afford the tax burden even if new renters were slow to arrive.

Seeing that the men were still talking, Ksenia set the buttons carefully on the countertop and took out her sketchbook. She started setting down the elements of the dress she wanted, drawing them in and labeling them so as not to forget anything.

Their discussions largely finished Artemis turned his attention to Ksenia’s sketch work. “That looks like it would be lovely on you,” he said, with no hint of his usual teasing. After a moment of further inspection he added, “Gives an air of importance without being too gaudy.” He smiled at her, and then turned to shake Mr. O’Dell’s hand. “We best be off then, a lot to do today. I’ll have my Craftmistress collect the deposit into her account since that lines up well with her studies ending. We can use some of the funds to pay for the exam at the same time and avoid an extra trip to the bank,” he said nodding to himself as he accepted the idea. “Seem fair, Kessy?” he asked her, then waited a moment before moving towards the door.

[Artemis Black]

Ksenia had nodded at Artemis’s suggestion but as they walked out the door of The Fine Gentleman’s Attire, a thought struck her. “Wait, you’d be using my account for the Hall? I’m not the owner or a partner, so is that even legal?” she asked, catching up to Artemis. “You still need to get a ledger to keep track of your accounts!”

“Are you not now, I could have sworn I’d read the legal documents,” he rummaged around in his satchel for several moments.“Ah, yes. A Craftmaster or Craftmistress may be granted an ownership stake no greater than ten percent in the performance of their duties to the hall. Oh, look, you even signed it!” he said, showing her the House Lericyro sealed document.

“What?! When was this?” She grabbed for the paper to look at it. Artemis held the document level, but used his own speed to keep it just out of her grasp without relying on his height.

“It must have been something when you were doing work with O’Dell. Who knows?” he said with a teasing grin.

Ksenia huffed a breath out in exasperation. “I would have remembered signing something! I hope you spelled my name correctly when you clearly forged my signature.” She used his half-second of distraction to snatch the paper.

She skimmed down the paper, reading about “fiduciary responsibilities” and “acting as an agent” before she found the spot Artemis quoted. An ownership stake - she was actually part owner of the Hall now. Glancing down at the signature, she was relieved to find that Artemis had indeed spelled her name correctly - and that he hadn’t added a surname.

“You - you trust me this much? That I’m a part owner of the Hall and I can act for you?” Ksenia couldn’t believe it; the world spun a little and her feet couldn’t feel the ground she knew was underneath her.

“I mean, without you it wouldn’t exist. Plus, this way I can pawn off all the boring stuff and not feel bad because it makes you money too,” he said with a wink and gently took hold of the document to return it to his secured satchel.

“Aha, the real motivation comes out!” Ksenia waited until he’d put the paper away. She held her arms out to him invitingly, hoping he’d understand.

Artemis immediately pulled Ksenia into a fierce hug, resting his head on her shoulder and squeezing her tightly. “My first willing hug, truly a great day for me, and therefore Fellsgard,” he mumbled into her hair. After several moments he whispered, “Your ears are really cute this close up. Sorry,” he said suddenly after and released her.

She blushed at his comment about her ears and self-consciously flicked her hair over them. “Thanks for not crushing all of my ribs, I think,” she said wryly.

“Oh no, don’t put them away, I won’t say anything,” he said with a hint of sadness. “I won’t even look anymore, at least until you forget,” he added, giving her a grin back.

Ksenia frowned a bit. “It’s not you saying something I’m worried about,” she said. He nodded in return, frowning again before letting his features drift to neutral. They were almost back to the district gate and he decided to work on his merchant’s walk again. His steps were odd for several strides before falling into the easy step of a man whose mind was far from the street but whose eyes were not.

⁂

The yard was a bustle of activity. A large pile of lumber, barrels of nails, and several sawhorses were spread out along the East Hall’s outer wall. Work crew were everywhere, measuring, moving scrap wood from inside, and sorting the lumber into distinct piles, likely reserving them for specific uses.

Artemis spent several seconds looking around before Jacobus approached him with a grin. “Things are sliding along Boss. Did you need something?” he asked, looking to Ksenia with equal regard.

“We’re going to need the wagon, a crewmate you can spare, and about two hours,” Artemis replied. “Need to pick up some fleece, visit the bank, and pay your supplier. Then the evening is free.” Artemis winked at Lynwood who’d let his eyes linger as he went past with a small loaded toolbox. “Anyone you’d recommend that can spare the time Foreman?” he asked while scanning the crew.

“If I may, could we borrow Amalia? I admit I’m curious about how she came to carpentry,” said Ksenia. She said nothing about the wink she’d seen on Artemis’s face, nor about the man she suspected he had directed the wink to - although she was going to ask when they weren’t in earshot of the entire crew.

“Aye, don’t need the joiner until tomorrow likely. We’re mostly getting things cleared still and will be at least until next midday I imagine. Lots was left behind, we found a whole barrel intact under some mess,” Jacobus said with a grin. “The crew is hoping it’s got something good in it, given how heavy it is. Maybe crack it tonight Craftmistress?”

“I don’t mind, but I hope they haven’t gotten their hopes up too far - after all, it’s likely been sitting there for years and it might’ve turned,” Ksenia commented. “Artemis? What do you think?”

“I think that sounds like a wonderful idea. We’re not on a terribly strict timeline, and you have to take chances to have the most fun,” he said in reply, offering her a nod of appreciation.

Jacobus smiled at them both, and then cupped his hand to his mouth. “Joiner, front and center. You’re needed by the Craftmistress,” he half-shouted into his hand. There was a moment of stunned silence before everyone returned to work and Amalia came jogging out of the warehouse with sweat coming down her brow.

She slid to a halt and looked at her three superiors. “You needed me?” she asked somewhat confused before wiping her brow with her sleeve.

“Up on the wagon, need someone to carry, look big, and chatter with on the way,” Artemis said before turning to get into the side seat of the wagon himself. Amalia gave a shrug and hopped into the driver’s seat, taking the reins. Ksenia stepped up into the wagon, stared at the distance to the ground, and then gestured for Artemis to move to the outside. She wedged herself in between her boss and the joiner.

Amalia flicked the reins and the ox began its trundling walk out of the work yard. Once they were out onto the main street she asked, “Where are we heading?”

“Fisher’s Bank first, then to the Discerning Maiden. I can give directions if you need. After that we go to pay the supplier,” Artemis said, pointing to the west, where the bank was. Amalia guided the wagon with care, but the slow vehicle and wide streets left plenty of time to talk.

She coughed nervously when they were several streets from the warehouse. “I- uh- appreciate the offer, but I’m not into threesomes,” she said, turning slightly pale and looking intently forward.

“What?” Ksenia said, confused. “Why-” She stopped and turned to look at Artemis. Fixing him with a fierce glare, she asked, “What did you do now?”

Artemis’ eyes went very wide and he grew paler by the moment. “I didn’t mean to- You said you weren’t interested, I wasn’t trying to-” he managed to start and stop several sentences before he finally frowned. “He didn’t even last a day?” he asked finally.

“We got real drunk the first night Boss. Not often you get a bunch of leftouts and they all get work, good work that ain’t illegal mind,” Amalia said in reply, wincing slightly. “You’re cute when you’re asleep by the way, but stay out of my bunk,” she added giving a shake of her head.

Ksenia flushed red in anger. “Idols take you Artemis, you’re sleeping with the crew? And you think your frost queen is gonna put up with that? She’s going to kill us - starting with me, by the way. I hope it was amazing, because I am not looking forward to facing that wrath!”

“I’m not sleeping with the crew. I was drunk and it was very dark and I just sort of fell into the first bunk I found,” he said, distinctly ignoring the first half of the series of implications.

“I’m not talking about you curling up in a bunk, and you know that.” Ksenia narrowed her eyes at him. “Amalia was clear she’s not interested in you the first day. So who, then? Clearly you’ve slept with someone on the crew, or Amalia wouldn’t have jumped to that assumption!” Ksenia fought very hard not to curl her hands into fists.

“Wait, Frost Queen?” Amalia said very nervously.

“He cornered me, he’s so big, and his lips were…” Artemis’ words faded out as he blushed fiercely. “I’ll talk to Kat, later, when things are set up and I can afford to be blighted or whatever for a couple days,” he said, waving his hand half-heartedly.

Ksenia’s face went completely hard. “Are you saying one of the men - forced you?” She fixed Artemis with a glare sharp enough to make his daggers look dull. “If that’s the case, I want - no, need to know.”

“No, no. Nothing like that. He just caught me off guard, was a little rough. Nothing like that. You think someone could force me into anything without at least a few cuts?” he asked her rhetorically. Amalia’s face continued to scroll through emotions, but finally settled on a confused discomfort.

“I’ve seen - well, things that might not have started off as forced, but ended up that way,” she said, her nails making divots in the bandages on her palms.

“Ah, Craftmistress, Lynwood ain’t the type. He’s a pretty straight fellow all told. He did mention the boss was an, uhm- eager little slut with a needy mouth though,” she said, wincing heavily at the last bit.

Artemis nodded a bit and shrugged. “I appreciate the honesty Amalia. Always talk to the Craftmistress or me, no reason to withhold things. We won’t rule with fear or violence. Though Kessy has a mean tirade in her if you poke too much,” Artemis said with a pat on the joiner’s shoulder.

“Only when it’s deserved.” Ksenia shot him a glare. “I do want to bring up one thing, Amalia. If you, or anyone hear about any of the crew being forced into -” she swallowed hard. “Any sort of dalliance they aren’t eagerly into.” She took a deep breath. “I won’t - I can’t allow that. Ever.” Ksenia crossed her arms over her middle and tried to breathe evenly as Mam and Raoul’s - and others’ - words screamed in her mind. She felt pale and a little clammy.

Artemis gave her a gentle squeeze on the arm. “Anything that isn’t enthusiastically done, gets a visit from me before it bothers her. Share that with Jacobus for us will you?” Artemis said to Amalia. “And don’t worry about Kat. She’ll likely only burn down my house, nothing too serious.”

Ksenia forced a half-hearted chuckle. “Might be a problem, since it’s currently all of us’s house.” She shut her eyes tightly; why had the wagon started to feel so wobbly?

“Eh, there’s the bank and we’ve got time. I promise, she won’t go after anyone but me and the taxes are paid for six months,” he said as he hopped down from the wagon to walk the last half block to the bank entrance.

Waiting for the wagon to halt, Ksenia longed to feel the movement stop. “Why - aren’t we stopping?” she managed to ask.

Artemis turned to look back after several moments. “Kessy? Amalia, give her a hand down please. Looks like she’s a bit wagonsick,” he said, very aware that was likely not the issue as he moved back towards the women.

Ksenia took the hand that fell on her shoulder and carefully opened her eyes. Amalia looked a bit concerned. “You’ll feel better on the ground, likely. Lift your hair up a bit, get a breeze on you,” the joiner said as she helped Ksenia down.

Ksenia forced herself to take slow, even breaths as she twisted her hair up and off her neck.

“Hey, let me get that. Getting a peek at them again already,” he said, taking her hair and holding it lightly while trying to distract her a bit.

She turned her face very slowly to shoot him an amused but despairing look. “Has anyone ever told you that you’re impossible?”

“Yes, several times a day on occasion,” he laughed back to her.

“You’re a half,” Amalia said bluntly, with a touch of interest in her voice. “Don’t see many of those, especially with businesses,” she added after a moment and nodded to Ksenia with more respect than before.

“Yeah,” Ksenia exhaled. “Had a human mother who raised me, elf father who split when he found out I was on the way.” She stood up straighter and shook her hair back over her ears. “I got most of the human side.”

“Ah, no father round, that makes you fit in a bit better around here I imagine,” Amalia said with a touch of humor. “Mine was browbeaten by my ma until he got taken by the sickness. Strong man he was, but he had a soft spot a mile wide for her,” she added with a touch of memory in her eyes.

“Was your father a woodworker too? Is that how you came to be a joiner?” Ksenia asked, forcing her mind away from the last of the memories that had bubbled up. “My mother and I traveled a lot, and I picked up sewing and embroidery while we moved.”

“Ah, he was. A planer though, I got into joining when my arms were bigger than my brothers. Takes a lot of care and will to get bad wood into good,” she said, flexing her arm slightly with a grin. “I’m guessing you didn’t have much of a home life boss, given the uh- eagerness,” she added with a wink at Artemis.

“Dunno, dad was a fisher, died at sea. Mom got stabbed to death by some bloke over kebab,” he said, returning her wink with an exaggerated lick of his lips. “I’ve just got a lot of love to give, I guess.”

Ksenia stretched and bopped Artemis with her shoulder. “Don’t harass Amalia.” Ksenia put her hand on his back, though; she remembered his reaction to the kebabs and recalling his mother’s death. “Let’s get this taken care of now, and then we can have the whole trip west to talk about all our oh-so-happy childhoods,” she said, her voice turning sarcastic at the end.

“I wanna know where he learned to suck like the dockside tide,” Amalia said with a slap on Artemis’ back.

Artemis blushed faintly before pushing up to be beside Ksenia as they entered the bank. They likely looked a sight. ‘A sailor-sized woman, a half-elf, and a small poor fisherman walking into a bank,’ Artemis thought and chuckled as he realized it’d make a good joke.

“I need that certificate they gave us last time,” Ksenia murmured to Artemis. She smoothed her hair down again, making sure her ears were covered.

He produced the required document and gave it to her with a wink, “Your certificate, my lady.”

Ksenia took it from him and held it, waiting for the clerk. Even though she’d been here before, she still felt nervous. For his part Artemis stood bouncing slightly on his feet and humming a tune. Ksenia sighed softly. Though she had pushed herself a little too far in the wagon, it had needed to be said - but the aftermath was leaving her a little strung out.

Several minutes passed before a window cleared. The man working there spent a few moments organizing his things and writing before he looked up and let out an even-toned “Next.” Artemis put his hand on Ksenia’s back and guided her up to the window.

“Hello sir, we’re looking to make a deposit, a withdrawal, and complete an assignment of Craftmistress for a business,” Artemis said, offering the man an even smile. He was always pleasant to business people who he was doing even deals with.

The clerk nodded and accepted the certificate Ksenia offered. “Miss Ksenia, as this is your account I must know that you are not being held under duress,” the clerk said evenly, though his left hand slid beneath his desk. There was likely an alarm bell down there that would summon the security.

“Oh, no, I’m fine. Mister Black is my associate,” Ksenia said, once she’d absorbed what the man had asked. “I requested that he accompany me as he owns the business where I will be Craftmistress.” The clerk watched her carefully for several seconds before his eyes flicked to Amalia. “She’s one of the current employees,” Ksenia explained.

“Excellent, and thank you for your cooperation. If you plan to have regular associates with you please add them to your accompany list. The manager will be able to help with that while you do paperwork,” the clerk said with a professional nod. “Now, how much to deposit and withdraw?” he said after a moment.

Artemis slid a gold and ten silver onto the counter. “This please, as well as whatever the Craftmistress desires. We’ll require a half-gold and ten when we leave,” he said, giving the man a nod for doing the exact thing Artemis had chosen this bank for, being security conscious.

“Perhaps a half-silver for current expenses,” Ksenia said thoughtfully. She turned to the woman standing behind her. “Amalia, what’s the name of the supplier for the lumber and hardware that Jacobus uses?”

“River Fell Lumber and Supply,” Amalia dutifully replied and then tilted her head in thought. “And Sunrise Shipping,” she added after a moment. “Thirty-five to River, Eight-six to Sunrise,” she said finally.

“Thank you. We’ll need to check that the suppliers are on the verified receiver list,” Ksenia said.

“They are Craftmistress,” the clerk said helpfully, looking up from a large neat ledger he’d quietly opened and inspected. “I will prepare the letters of credit while you speak with the manager if that is alright,” he added before looking at them.

“That’s fine. You said thirty-five silver and eight silver, six copper, right, Amalia?” Ksenia looked back at the woman for confirmation.

“Yes ma’am,” she replied, clearly familiar with this sort of thing.

“Thank you, the manager should be ready for you now,” the clerk replied and motioned to the only table in the room. Artemis turned and followed Ksenia over to have a seat. Amalia took to leaning against the wall a short distance away.

“Welcome, I’m told you’re looking to assign a Craftmistress,” the bank manager said with an easy smile. “What is the interested business please?” he asked looking to Ksenia.

“Black’s at East Hall,” she replied. “Mister Black is the owner of a freeman’s hall.”

“Excellent. I believe it was opened recently, but I did not see the notification of a completed inspection. This won’t be a trouble, but we’d appreciate if you dropped in when the transfer is finalized just to let us know,” the manager said with a nod and a look at several documents he’d arrayed on the desk. “Now, Mister Black, Artemis. I have several records here, I need to ensure they’re correct before I can complete the assignment.”

Artemis winced slightly before nodding his acceptance. The manager gave another easy smile and ran his finger down a particularly densely written and stamped page. “Associate, Emergency Access-”

“Cleared, as should all related accounts,” Artemis interrupted suddenly. The manager paused and nodded before checking off a majority of the lines on the document.

“Holder and adjudicator for a Miss Andrea Winslow?” the manager asked.

“Correct and current.”

“Receiver for accounts payable, Dash O’Dell?”

Artemis’ eyes opened in surprise. “Correct, current and convenient. Please have the proceeds to that account transferred directly to Craftmistress Ksenia for the next three months,” he said with a grin. “That saves us at least one trip,” he added as an aside to Ksenia while the manager made some notes.

“That brings us up to date, please sign here your official recognition of the new fiscal relation,” the manager said, turning his document to face first Ksenia and then Artemis, indicating a line each time.

Ksenia tried to remember what “her” signature looked like on the assignation form before Artemis placed it on the table to her side. “This is the only additional form needed correct?” he asked the manager.The man smiled and tapped his page.

Sneaking a quick glance, Ksenia saw it was her name in her usual quick scrawl. She took the pen and scribbled her name, trying to keep it similar. The signature she’d practiced as a younger girl looked nothing like the current markings, but she supposed the more distance she could gain from her past, the better off she’d be.

Artemis made a perfect rendition of his own signature without looking down at the paper. The manager, satisfied nodded to the pair and took back his collection of documents. “Did you need anything else while we’re here?” he asked, looking to them both for a moment.

“Please add Mister Black to the accompaniment list, and Miss Amalia-” Ksenia paused and waved her over.

“You need me?” Amalia asked as she approached.

“Amalia, do you have a surname?” Ksenia asked. “I can add you to the list in case we need someone to come here on business, but they’ll need your name.”

“Hahn, Miss,” she said after several moments of consideration. “Never got my mother’s name,” she added.

Ksenia nodded. “Thank you,” she said. Turning back to the manager, she said, “Please add Miss Amalia Hahn to the list with Mister Black.”

“Understood, thank you for your patronage,” the manager said and offered his hand out to Ksenia. She shook his hand, keeping her gaze fixed on his face to keep his attention away from her hands. The manager made a quick note on his papers and then stood. “Have an excellent day Craftmistress Ksenia,” he said before moving back into the secured area of the bank.

The clerk from earlier came out and smiled, handing over several papers in an engraved leather folder. “Your letters of accepted credit. River Fell Lumber and Supply for thirty-five silver and Sunrise Shipping for eight silver and six copper,” the clerk repeated in a rote toneless voice. He then bowed slightly and smiled. “Have an excellent day, Craftmistress Ksenia.”

“That went well,” Artemis said as he started to head outside the wagon.

“Well enough, I guess,” Ksenia said. She sighed and shook her arms out. “Time to go trade barbs with Miss Turley.”

[Ksenia]

As the wagon started rolling, Ksenia turned to Amalia. “If you need more clothes, Miss Turley runs The Discerning Maiden, which sells second-hand clothes and fabrics. Just be sure you take Artemis with you - she likes him and you’ll get a better deal, trust me.”

“Are there women merchants that don’t like Boss?” Amalia asked, only half joking.

“Probably, I know I definitely slept with a few sons and daughters that had vengeful mothers,” Artemis replied with a grin as he shifted in his seat. “So, you’re all official, recognized by an institution and everything.” He prodded Ksenia lightly and gave her a sideways hug.

She stilled for a moment before returning the gesture. “You know, I said I wanted to have a little shop - and now I have part of an entire craft hall!” she laughed. She sobered for a moment. “Thank you. You keep saying you couldn’t have done it without me, but I wouldn’t have much without your help either.”

“The real secret ingredient is the kindness of others,” Artemis said with a knowing wink. “Speaking of, make sure you’re finished with the rest of the silk, and sell it through O’Dell sooner rather than later,” he said, no longer looking directly at her.

“I have a little more to do, but I’m almost done, save for a few small scraps. I hope they’ll be able to fetch a similar price,” she mused. “Do you think it’d be okay to take the finished work and what’s left with me while I’m at O’Dell’s since he’ll be getting it anyway?”

“Don’t see a reason not to, he won’t mind I imagine. I do find it pleasing I got to see him treating you like a common apprentice. It truly warmed my heart.” Artemis looked over to Amalia as the woman navigated a particularly crowded section of street. “Have you driven a wagon often? You seem very light on the reins,” he said with a clear interest.

Ksenia stuck her tongue out at Artemis. “Don’t think you’ll get the same reception from me if you try that!”

“I’ve done it a bit when a foreman needed, from time to time,” Amalia said, squinting as she concentrated on the traffic. “Got yelled at once for being too heavy-handed and been careful about it since.”

“So you learn from your experience. That’s dangerous, or so I’ve heard,” Artemis said with a grin. “Speaking of, any ladies catch your eye lately?” He added the question with less than his usual needling.

“Why, you trying to poach from me, boss?” Amalia asked with a smirk. “Naw, since the Craftmistress here said she ain’t interested,” she nodded to Ksenia. “I haven’t seen much of anyone around.”

“Nah, I don’t poach if I can avoid it. Lemme know if anyone catches your eye so I can know who to send your way for some instructions,” he said with an exaggerated wink. “And she is just adorable, isn’t she. Though you’d do well to be friends with her instead. She makes very comfy clothes.”

Ksenia pressed her lips together. “I’m trying to take that as a compliment, I think. I’m happy to do tailoring if you need clothes shortened, taken in, or modified; I can make them from scratch if you want, but that takes much more time so it’s more costly.” She nodded at Artemis. “I’ve added extra pockets and things to some of his clothes. I could add a hammer loop for you, for example.”

“Pass that along to the crew, they can pay for services, or setup an exchange once we’ve got our three ledgers. And if they’re caught harassing the Craftmistress with needless advances they won’t be a problem for long,” Artemis said, with an edge to his voice that showed only in his eyes. Amalia shivered slightly and looked intently back at the road.

“That’s a good idea. I’m going to need things like a good cutting table and shelves to store fabrics and things,” Ksenia thought out loud.

“See, this is why she’s in charge. Cute, too smart for her own good, and talented. I aim to make something like the Goose and the Hart together. Exchange of favors, but less of the whole undertone of violence and debtors,” Artemis added somewhat mystifyingly to Amalia’s perspective.

“Fair, although I’d be surprised if we didn’t work for - or with - them occasionally. I’m practically useless when it comes to the Goose’s sort of favors.” Ksenia brushed a strand of hair out of her face.

“Business is business of course, never going to turn down something that could do us well, but I hope to avoid that particular brand of business,” he said before pointing to a ruddy sign ahead. “That’s us driver,” he grinned at Amalia who rolled her eyes.

“Since I expect you’re not going to let me lift anything, I’ll go settle up with Miss Turley. Do we have time for Amalia to look around a bit?” Ksenia said, holding on to the wagon as it slowed.

“I don’t see why not, maybe get something skimpy to show to the ladies,” Artemis said, laughing heartily at his own wit.

Ksenia rolled her eyes. “Let’s get the fleece, and then I’ll poke around a bit too. Wouldn’t hurt me to have more clothes either, and I’d wager there’s probably some aprons or tool belts in there that could be fixed. I could get a few if you think it’d be useful,” she said to Amalia.

“Oh, definitely. Lot of the crew’s gear is a bit long in the tooth or come apart all together. Plus future renters might like to have some available to them,” Amalia commented.

“All right then, I can fix small rips and tears fairly quickly, although it may have to wait a few days,” Ksenia said, holding up her hands. “I’ll be tied up at Mr. O’Dell’s for a little while, but after that, sure. I don’t do leather working, but I might be able to sew up a seam.” She hopped down off the wagon. “We’ll start a pile on the counter, like we usually do. Feel free to add to it, Amalia.”

“Oh, maybe Gavin or Borin?” Artemis added helpfully.

“You mean to have leatherwork done? Or to look for gear for them? Or both?” Ksenia asked.

“I like both, it makes me seem smarter,” Artemis said, playing with various hats and threadbare mittens.

“Of course. Are you not going to tell poor Miss Turley you’re here? She’s probably been waiting on you all day,” Ksenia smirked. “Miss Turley! It’s Ksenia and Artemis, and he’s brought in another woman as well!” she called. “I think the man’s after building a stable of ladies!”

Artemis was suddenly not there. It wasn’t clear if he’d ducked into the clothing racks or simply run off around a corner, but he was gone from sight. “Oh, the stallion returns with another mare does he? He’s certainly been collecting them!” the withered and lascivious voice of Miss Turley called out as she hobbled out from the back room.

“He’s a busy man,” shrugged Ksenia exaggeratedly. “Let me give you the coin for the fleece from earlier. I don’t see Artemis around so I guess I’ll have to haul it to the wagon myself,” she said in a slightly louder than usual voice, giving the other women a wink.

“Don’t you dare,” came in a muffled indignant shout from a rack of clothes. “Amalia, stop the Craftmistress at all costs!”

Amalia shrugged, chuckled and picked Ksenia up in a bearhug. “Sorry Craftmistress, Boss’ orders,” she said, blushing faintly.

“Please put me down,” Ksenia asked, squirming. “I feel like I can’t breathe.” Amalia immediately set Ksenia down gently and stepped back with an apologetic bow. “Thanks, I just don’t like being - restrained like that.” Ksenia fished in her pocket for the ten copper and set it on the counter.

“I like this one boy, good muscle on her. Though, she does seem to be after your mistress first,” Miss Turley said in a teasing tone.

Ksenia motioned Amalia over. “Welcome to Miss Turley’s shop,” she said in a quiet but amused voice. “Let Artemis take the fleece to the wagon and you go look,” she said, gently shooing her off. Ksenia turned and walked softly toward the rack that had spoken.

“What is this now? Did I actually embarrass Artemis Black?” Ksenia said with a hint of mirth. “I didn’t think it was possible.”

“Hush you, or I’ll rub your ears when you’re distracted,” Artemis said, clearly pouting as he emerged wearing three gloves and two hats.

Ksenia tried not to laugh as one of the gloves plopped on the floor. “Considering you announced me as your ‘mistress’ this morning, I think we can call it equal.” She peered at one of the hats hanging off him. “Didn’t you say you needed a hat? Why not look for one -” she paused. “After you’ve loaded the fleece into the wagon.”

“Amalia, keep her from picking up the other one while you look around. You have my permission to spank her if she tries,” Artemis said sticking his tongue out and moving to grab a bag of fleece to lug outside with only a soft muttering.

“Don’t worry, I won’t,” Ksenia said, swallowing hard. That was not an image she cared to have in her head, ever. She picked up the hats Artemis had dumped on the floor and placed them carefully on the rack. Neither of them looked like the one he’d admired in O’Dell’s shop that morning, but they looked sturdy enough. She picked up a faded black felt hat with a wide brim, studying it. Maybe she could alter it to something better.

Artemis came back in, still grumbling, and took the second bag of fleece. “If you find something you like, put it on the counter. Cost isn’t an issue, and I might get you a gift,” he said as he passed Amalia eyeing a collection of cloaks.

Ksenia put the felt hat on the counter. If Artemis didn’t like it, there were plenty of things she could do with it instead. “What did you find?” she asked, moving over to Amalia.

“Some cloaks, mine’s ruined since I had to sleep on it a few times. It’s getting cold,” she replied absently as she looked over a handful of cloaks. Each was made of thick warm wool but wildly different in color and ornamentation.

“Hmm.” Ksenia considered them and picked out a cloak of red wool. “What do you think of this one? I think the color would look nice on you,” she said, holding it up to Amalia’s shoulders.

Amalia blushed slightly and nodded, taking the cloak and turning away. “Thanks,” she said over her shoulder softly.

“Does everyone have blankets and something to sleep on for your bunks?” Ksenia asked, still looking at the cloaks. Probably wouldn’t be a bad idea to get one for herself. She picked up one in a thick woolen charcoal grey and added it to the pile.

“Blankets no, mattresses, well enough,” Artemis replied slipping back into the shop and dusting his hands.

“I see,” Ksenia said, moving toward the back where Miss Turley usually kept the larger cuts of fabric and blankets. She tugged a few promising candidates from the shelves, and unfolded them to check the size. “How many would we need for everyone to have at least one blanket?”

“Three more, maybe four, Jacobus is a big guy,” Amalia said from the counter.

Ksenia set aside the two heavy blankets that were about two yards long. They were patched in multiple places, but they would work well enough. Refolding the others, she began looking for something larger, until she came across what she initially thought was several blankets piled together. It turned out to be a massive patchwork that almost seemed like a wool tent. “Um, Amalia, think this will work? And if so, help?” Ksenia said, holding the fabric up.

“Think so,” Amalia said, working her way to the back. She helped Ksenia refold the enormous blanket and took it to the counter. “Looks plenty warm too. Foreman might get popular all the sudden,” she said with a grin.

“Oh, is that, um, something he prefers? He said something about having a daughter when we met,” Ksenia said, covering the slight reddening of her cheeks by pretending to look at the shelves again.

“Yeah, shame that was,” Amalia said. “And Jacobus is a big teddy bear. He’ll share a blanket but he’s not much for anything else these days.”

“What happened?” Ksenia moved back toward the racks. She was considering looking for a skirt to put with the top she’d made out of the ripped dress she’d bought before. “From the way he spoke, it sounded like she wasn’t around anymore.” Realizing how gossipy she sounded, Ksenia hastened to add, “only if you don’t think he’ll mind you saying, of course.”

“I’ll leave that to him. Not my place,” Amalia said with a slight frown. “Besides, as you said, can’t tell all the stories yet.”

“Are your ladies done galavanting around my store yet?” Miss Turley asked with an amused grin. “You’re not mounting them in my aisles are you?”

“I think we’re finished. Put the lot on this,” Artemis said, handing over a half-silver and winking. “I’ll bring new ones next time. Don’t want you getting bored.” The coin disappeared suddenly and Miss Turley shooed them away before disappearing into her back room with a cackle of amusement. “Come on driver, time to load as well,” Artemis said with a grin to Amalia as he grabbed as much of the pile as he could. He smartly left the massive blanket for the much bigger woman rather than attempt to show off and look foolish.

“Ah, I just remembered. I’m out of time at the Goose. Can we swing by on the way back and get the last of the fleece and my things?” Ksenia said, sitting on the wagon’s seat as she watched the other two put their bundles in the bed.

“Driver, to the Goose!” Artemis said in his best nobleman’s voice. Amalia just stared at him for several long seconds not moving the wagon. When he started to get a little nervous and finally apologized she flicked the reins to encourage the ox.

“We can wait until we’ve paid for the supplies, it’s no rush,” Ksenia said in mild protest.

“Nonsense, if we do it that way around we’ll have to come back again. This way, if we need to pick up any more supplies we can get that info along the way and bring them back. Logistics!” Artemis pronounced before clambering into the back of the wagon and laying down on the fleece sacks. “These are very soft,” he said without moving.

“I told you!” Ksenia grinned, looking over her shoulder. “And as you’re the boss, we’ll do it your way. I’ll need a minute to bundle up my things, but it’s not too much. We’ve got another sack of fleece, remember, and you’ll need to be careful since it’s got dirt on the bottom.”

Amalia shook her head at her employers and guided the wagon back onto the main road. She was beginning to wonder what exactly Jacobus had gotten them all in to.

[Artemis Black]

The area around the Goose was the usual mix of bustling and industrious. The Eastern District gate looked to be host to all sorts of merchants and vendors making their way to and from the more prosperous South District. There were even guards and tax men checking wagons attempting to leave the poor district. Artemis motioned for Amalia to park off to the side of the road when he realized there was no need for them to deal with the line or hassle.

“Take her in, grab her stuff, and then we can load everything up on this side. I’ll protect all this, but try not to dawdle,” he said as he sat on the edge of the wagon’s front bench while remaining in the cargo area.

Ksenia climbed down, glancing over at the guards a bit nervously, but smoothed her hair over her ears and walked in her best nonchalant but busy manner toward the Goose. Amalia did her best to keep pace with the shorter woman.

The Goose was fairly busy for mid-afternoon, but Ksenia was able to get through the tables easily. She waved to Cece, who was getting orders from a table, and headed to the back. Turning into the hallway that would take them up to the servants’ stairs, she almost collided with Deb.

“Deb!” Ksenia hugged her, excited to see her and also trying to maintain her balance. “I didn’t think I’d get to see you today. What’s going on outside?”

Deb kissed the top of Ksenia’s head. “They’re checking for fakes and stolen goods. Who’s this?” She nodded to Amalia, who was standing behind Ksenia and desperately trying not to stare.

“Oh, this is Amalia - she’s one of the work crew Artemis hired to work on his warehouse. Amalia, this is Deborah, she works here at the Goose.” Ksenia turned around, opening her embrace but not fully letting go of Deb. “We’ve come to get my things, since Artemis hired a wagon and it’ll be easiest this way.”

“Uh, hello,” Amalia said, her voice a bit high pitched. “Nice to meet you.” She was a bit frozen in place, her eyes fixed on Deb.

“I can’t stay, Deb, but I’ll find you to give you the key. Oh - before I forget, I’ll be at O’Dell’s for the next few days.” Ksenia gave her a final squeeze. “Up these stairs, Amalia. I’ve got a workroom I’ve been staying in,” Ksenia said, as she began climbing the stairs. Amalia followed a bit dumbly behind her.

Ksenia unlocked the door and stepped in with a sigh. “It’s been a nice little room,” she said to no one. “Oh, the fleece sack is in the corner there, if you want to go ahead and take that.”

Amalia moved to get the described sack. Once she had it settled she looked towards Ksenia. “I can see why you’re not interested. Your woman is beautiful,” she said sheepishly as she shifted the fleece.

“My woman?” Ksenia frowned. “Oh Deb? She’s not - I mean, well - we’re not involved like that,” Ksenia stumbled, trying to think of a way to explain the situation without exposing Deb’s secrets. “It’s more like she’s my generous big sister,” Ksenia settled for explaining.

“She’s certainly big something,” Amalia mumbled. “You’ll have to run that by me again over drinks some time,” she added at a more normal volume.

Ksenia chuckled. “You’re not the first to think of her that way. Go ahead, I’ll be here for a bit.” She took a large piece of black wool from one of the sideways crates stacked against the wall and began piling other items in the middle.

Amalia nodded and headed back towards the stairs she’d taken in. As she got to the landing Deborah was leaned against the wall. “Arty’s not being mean to my dearest is he?” she asked Amalia with no preamble. The joiner balked for a moment as her brain caught up to the context of the question.

“If you’re talking about Boss and Craftmistress, then I haven’t seen anything but banter and friendliness,” she finally said with a bit of a shrug. “Say, if you’re not her woman, are you free for dinner some time?” Amalia added in a rush.

Deborah tapped her chin thoughtfully for a moment before giving Amalia a small smile. “I think I could be convinced. Talk to Ksenia when you’re free,” she said before nodding to herself and turning to head down the hall. She waved her fingers teasingly as she went. “See you around then,” she said over her shoulder.

Ksenia stuck the blue silk pieces inside one of her dresses and folded it neatly. She stuck it in a pile of other clothing to make it look less suspicious; she doubted she’d get stopped but it never hurt to be cautious. Grabbing the other items she had on the shelves, she stopped and looked around. Her bedroll was folded, with her blanket and pillow on top. Nothing else of hers was in the room. She bundled up the black wool and slung it over her shoulder to leave and lock the door.

Outside Artemis was eyeing a group of dangerous looking men who were doing much the same back. The wagon they were charged with guarding had lost a wheel and the repair was taking longer than it should. 'Feels like a setup, but who is stupid enough to do this right in front of the guards,' he thought to himself as his fingers twitched nervously.

Several more tense minutes passed before there was a thunk followed by the creaking protest of misaligned wheels. The damaged wagon moved on, and with it the dangerous cadre of hired muscle. Artemis let out a long slow breath and checked his surroundings again. Nothing was missing or out of place. No one was straying too close. 'Everything's fine. Calm,' he tried to soothe his thumping heart.

Setting her bundle down, Ksenia locked the door. Deb came up from behind her and put her arms over Ksenia’s shoulders. “Got everything, lovie?” she asked.

“I think so,” Ksenia replied, holding the key out to Deb. “I left the bedding stacked up - it all belongs to the Goose.” Deb took the key and put it away.

“Your girl Amalia wants to have dinner with me,” Deb said, putting a hand on Ksenia’s shoulder and lifting the bundle with her other.

“Oh?” Ksenia’s face flushed a little and she sighed. “Much as I’d like to keep you all to myself, I know I can’t. I’m guessing you want me to tell her about - well, having a bite with you?” She looked up at Deb with an amused twist to her mouth.

“I’d rather she know before. Much less messy that way,” Deb replied. They headed downstairs. “Amalia will have to get this out to the wagon for you, lovie. Stop trying to use your hands.” Deb squeezed Ksenia’s arm and left the bundle a little way from the foot of the stairs.

Amalia nodded to Artemis as she tossed the bundle up into the wagon. “Ksenia’s not-woman is the finest thing I’ve seen in a long time Boss,” she said giving him a wry smile.

Artemis blinked and looked at her for a second. “Oh, Bitey, yeah. She’s got all the right places for sure. She put the moves on you?” he asked back leaning on the wagon’s edge with gossipy interest.

“I asked her to dinner, she said to talk to Craftmistress,” Amalia replied giving a nod.

“Oh goodness, she’s trapped another one,” he said. “Hurry up now, let’s get out of here before this all gets any more crowded and we can’t turn around.” Amalia nodded and moved back towards the Goose.

Ksenia tapped her foot in nervous impatience. She saw Amalia come in the door and waved her over. “This is the last of it, let’s go,” Ksenia said, gesturing to the bundle. “Also, you’ve asked Deb to dinner, I hear. We’ll talk later.” Following Amalia out the door, Ksenia hopped in the wagon as the other woman put her belongings in the wagon’s bed.

Amalia hopped up into the driver’s seat and looked around before giving out a few terse shouts and encouragements. People moved as the ox started to trundle, turning the wagon in a large loop before they were headed deeper into the East District.

The roads got less crowded just before they turned off onto North Rigging. Amalia nodded as she noticed the change in traffic. “This’ll likely get worse if the Hall gets popular Boss. Might be worth talking to the watch about setting up a post on that corner. Folks tend to mob a bit less if a guard’s around,” she said, motioning to the crowds they were leaving behind.

“Makes sense, might be worth it, but that’s much later,” Artemis replied as they made the sweeping turn into the East Hall workyard. Several of the nearby residents were out and about. A few children were playing a game away from the tools and two young women were talking to Jacobus.

“Yes, ma'am, we’ll keep the noise down at night. My crew needs to sleep just like you, and I’ll keep an eye out for the littles,” he said, offering the women an easy smile.

“Afternoon Foreman, I hope there’s no trouble,” Artemis said as he hopped down from the wagon. The women immediately looked over to him and their expressions changed from friendly to suspicious.

[color=FF0055]“I know you,”[/color] the taller of the women said with a bit of a bite to her words. “You’re the one who keeps skulking about on the roofs at odd hours.”

Artemis grinned broadly and nodded. “That’s me, I like to keep an eye on my property. Do you ladies live nearby? I’d love to have the community involved in making East Hall a safe and friendly place if you’re willing. Artemis Black, owner and operator of this freeman’s hall,” Artemis said offering out his hand.

The first woman looked down at his hand and narrowed her eyes. There was a beat of awkward silence before the second woman shoved past her and took his hand in a firm shake. “Lena, this is my brother’s wife. We live just there and keep the home for now,” she said, pointing at one of the houses lining the workyard.

Overhearing the conversation, Ksenia sucked in a small breath and smoothed her hair past her ears. “Maybe we should get things unloaded while he’s talking,” she said quietly to Amalia. “I’d rather not mess things up with my ears.” Ksenia climbed down on the far side of the wagon. “Hand me something - oh, some of the clothing. I won’t have to grip that.”

Amalia handed her the cloaks and tossed a sack of fleece down. “Just take it to Artemis’s room. I’ll have my things in there until we get everything built,” Ksenia said.

“Ah a lovely looking place, would you care to see what’s going on inside?” Artemis said, noticing Ksenia’s furtive movement and walking around so the women were looking towards him and the open loading door rather than the rest of the crew. Lena nodded and her sister-in-law frowned but they both followed him.

He led them to just in the doorframe of the building, waving to the crew who were busy finishing up the removal of the upstairs flooring and walls. “We’ll have a public space here in the center, and encourage smaller stalls outside, particularly food and homegoods,” Artemis said, motioning with his hands as he spoke. “As you can see the crew is taking apart the upstairs. The area was damaged enough to not be worth saving. We’ll eventually add a new one in, but first the structure must be sound.”

“Where does your crew eat Mister Black?” Lena asked and the other woman looked at her shocked. “I could cook some meals up if you’re willing to pay a fair price for them.”

Artemis looked at the woman for a second and rubbed his chin. “Would you be willing to cook up a dinner for tonight, something hearty but not too fancy? I’ll give you the coin now and we can see what the crew thinks. Saves me having to get credit with a bunch of random wagons,” he said, nodding as the thoughts coalesced into a complete idea.

Lena nodded eagerly, clearly happy for the chance to ease the monetary burdens on her family. Given they lived next to what had long been an abandoned warehouse those burdens were likely heavy and constant. Artemis fished into his hidden belt pouch and removed a silver. “Food for ten, and remember, nothing too fancy. Don’t want the crew getting used to decadence,” he said with a smile. Lena took the coin with a look of eagerness.

“Yes sir, I’ll go now. Thank you sir,” she said all in a rush before hurrying off. Her sister-in-law looked to her, back to Artemis, and then scrambled off to follow her.

Ksenia and Amalia came back into the yard, having dropped off their burdens by Artemis’s room. “They’re gone?” Ksenia asked in a low voice. “I didn’t want to mess things up with them seeing my ears.”

“You’d not have caused any trouble I couldn’t solve with a bit of silver or steel, but I appreciate the thought. They’re going to be fixing dinner for the crew. At a price much cheaper than the wagons would I imagine. I overpaid a bit for the trial. Maybe can convince them to work a stall out here once things are up and running,” Artemis said, mostly to himself as he aired the remainder of his thoughts on the matter.

"Well, I hope they're good cooks," Ksenia said. "We've got a few more things to unload off the wagon and then we can go pay the supplier. Have you asked Jacobus if there's anything else that we should pick up?"

“I forgot, maybe do your duty and handle that for me,” Artemis said with a grin. “I’ll carry the rest of the things inside and unlock my room. We should probably get your mattress stuffed as soon as we get back, so you’re not on the floor.”

"All right that sounds like a pla-" Ksenia stopped, turned red, and covered her face with her hands. "The mattress cover. I haven't had a chance to mend it, nor am I going to be able to with my hands like they are."

“I can try and help, or you can trust me a bit and we can just use my cover,” Artemis said. “Go handle Jacobus, we can fret about this while we ride,” he added.

Ksenia sighed and walked over to Jacobus. "Hello, Jacobus. We're about to go pay the suppliers - is there anything else you need us to pick up, either from them or elsewhere?"

“Another lot of timber and glue would make things a lot easier. Just tell them you need a half-order again. It’ll cost a silver or less, otherwise they’re trying to be sly. Have the joiner give them a wallop if that’s the case,” the Foreman said before shouting something and running over to stop some lumber from falling.

“I guess that’s easy enough,” Ksenia said to herself. She headed inside to Artemis’s room to help move smaller things in. “Foreman said to get a half order of timber and glue-” She stopped looking in the doorway. “Those beds take up a bit of room, don’t they?” Two stacked beds were against one wall and Artemis’s other furniture had been shoved around to make room.

Artemis set the last of Ksenia’s gear onto his misshapen table. “It does, will probably give you the top section to keep once we get a room set up elsewhere. For now it’s a little hollow of comfort,” he said as he moved over and shifted around his storage crates some. “They ruined my organization,” he said picking up and setting down several boxes until he removed a heavy black wool cloak from one. “There, let’s go then.”

“We can work on that later,” Ksenia said. “I bet we could get the empty crates that were in the storeroom in the Goose if I ask Deb,” she remarked thoughtfully. “As for the mattress forms, well, there’s enough fleece for two, so we can stuff yours first.” She put a hand on the stuffed form and heard it rustle. “It’ll be much nicer than straw.”

“Eh, I’d rather just a chest or two and some shelves. And how dare you disparage my hand-crafted artisanal straw sleeping experience.”

Ksenia shot him a singularly unimpressed look. “I have no idea why you’d choose to sleep on straw when you can have better.” She paused. “As for the crates, that’s more a temporary measure. I thought you’d rather the crew work on the building than on furniture for now,” she commented.

“Oh, don’t think for a moment I’ll turn down luxury, but you mustn't be cruel to my poorly constructed mattress. We’ve had a lot of fond memories lately,” Artemis said, looking overly sad and nostalgic. “I do want them to work on more important things, I just meant I don’t need more crates,” he added, switching back to his regular jovial attitude immediately.

“I think you’ll be alright once you lay down on the fleece stuffing,” Ksenia said, patting his shoulder. “Now let’s get over to the suppliers - and who knows, we might even be able to get your ledgers as well.”

“The last time a woman promised things would be alright if I just laid down I woke up without my pants or coin purse,” Artemis replied helpfully. “We’ll want three ledgers,” he said as he let her out of the room and turned to lock it back. “One for me, one for you, and one for the Hall. Don’t need to mix them together and get into trouble,” he said as he moved up the stairs.

Amalia saw them and headed over to mount the wagon. As they were all getting settled there was a soft shout. Lynwood came jogging up. “Need to get some spares, they’ll have some good used ones,” he said as he clambered up into the back of the wagon. Amalia waited a moment for objections before flicking the reins and starting their journey anew.

Ksenia caught Artemis’s eye, flicked a glance back to Lynwood, and stared at Artemis, tilting her head questioningly.

“What?” he asked looking around. Ksenia gave him a flat stare and turned her gaze to the road.

“Amalia, do you know if either of these suppliers might have business stuff like ledgers or pens and things?” Ksenia asked. “We’ll need some of that for all the paperwork.”

“I think there’s a parchment place nearby we could poke into,” Amalia replied as she kept her eyes intently not on their cargo passenger.

Artemis jerked as if he’d been struck. “Oh, yeah, we fucked a bit when we were getting the beds,” he said suddenly, nodding his head at Lynwood who immediately turned a mixture of mortified white and aroused pink.

“I thought we discussed that this morning?” Ksenia said in a bored tone. “I didn’t realize he was your type, after all the drooling I saw you do over Dáire. I expected someone a little more - tall, dark, and mildly brooding, I suppose.”

“How could anyone with a pulse not like Dáire?” Artemis retorted. “Besides, it’s not a permanent thing, I was lonely, and he has a really nice co-”

Lynwood cleared his throat aggressively, apparently shaken from his shock. “I am literally right here you know,” he said shaking his head.

“Do you need me to come back there and keep you company?” Artemis replied, turning to look back at the man and wink.

“By the idols, Artemis, could you maybe try not getting into someone’s pants for five minutes,” Ksenia said, slightly exasperated. “If I have to, I’ll sit back there. At least I know Amalia’s not terribly likely to fall to your wiles.”

“I just figured he was cold, we’ve all got cloaks and he’s only got those tight pants,” he said chuckling to himself and bouncing a bit as he scanned the street. He hadn’t had this sort of day in a long time. Usually it was all alone with the wind to talk to. The wind was a terrible conversationalist.

“Oh for -” Ksenia turned around to Lynwood. “Are you cold? Need a cloak?” She unhooked the neck of her usual shorter cloak. “You can have mine.”

Lynwood blushed a bit and shivered suddenly. “I feel like an idiot. Thank you,” he said accepting the cloak and hunkering down in the wagon a bit. “I think I’m getting a better handle on Boss Amalia. He’s terrifying,” Lynwood added, looking at the woman’s back.

“Oh, you figured that out just now, missed the knives when he was gobbling you up then?” Amalia said with a crass laugh. Ksenia snorted loudly at that.

“He fools everybody, don’t feel too bad.” Ksenia carefully flipped around and hopped down into the bed. “When I first met him, he gave me this whole story about how his dear old nan left him this-”

“Excuse me, that is client privileged information, and I resemble those remarks,” Artemis interrupted turning to lift his leg and sit with his arm resting on his knee looking backwards.

Ksenia rolled her eyes. “Point is, you won’t be the first person he’s duped, and you won’t be the last.”

“I would like to take a moment to have everyone appreciate how horribly I’ve tricked you all, with the paying, and the beds, and the food. I’m truly dastardly,” Artemis said, slightly offended.

Ksenia just looked at him and raised her eyebrows. “I don’t think you can deny you enjoy putting one over on people, even if you don’t have to. Do you really think you needed to put on that whole dog-and-pony show to get me to work for you?”

“They say if you enjoy what you do, you won’t work a day. I’ve worked for more than a few, but less than I expected,” Artemis replied. “Oh, Amalia, are you a good kisser? Are your talents more in romance? That’ll be important if I’m scoping people out.”

“She just asked Deb to dinner,” Ksenia said, swatting at Artemis’s thigh. “One thing at a time!”

“And I can tell you the script for exactly how that’s going to go. I’m not letting it happen until we don’t need her for a few days,” Artemis said back, poking Ksenia in the shoulder.

Ksenia grabbed his hand and pushed it back toward him. “Don’t be too upset, Amalia. We’ll explain later - Deb’s not really ‘girlfriend’ material,” Ksenia said.

“She’s got huge tits and nice lips though,” Artemis added helpfully.

Ksenia closed her eyes and huffed at Artemis, resting her forehead in her hand. “Not that that’s what interested me, but yes, she does.”

“She can also give you some mean hugs and is very warm,” Artemis finished and patted Ksenia lightly.

“We’re here,” Amalia said, drawing the wagon up short. “Boss, come with me to the supplier. Lynwood, you show Craftmistress the parchmenter next to the tools shop. We’ll swing by and pay them once we’ve finished.”

Artemis nodded and hopped down. “Oh, and try not to fuck anyone else on the way,” Amalia added to a wincing Lynwood as he stood waiting for Ksenia.

“Let me guess, she’s your sister,” Ksenia said mischievously. Lynwood laughed and shook his head.

“She’s more like the aggressive older aunt I didn’t want,” he said back, pointing with his hand. “That one there, with the quill is you, I’ll pop in with you, no sense in waiting on tool orders that I’ll have to pay for first.”

“If you like. I have some coin to pay for things, so it shouldn’t be an issue.” Ksenia pulled the door open and stepped inside. The smell of ink, parchment, and glue filled her nose. She looked over a shelf of bound books, looking for ledgers.

“So, he was serious then. He just kinda does that sometimes and then acts like nothing happened?” Lynwood asked, picking up a nice bound sheaf of thick paper.

“What? Oh, the bed-hopping?” Ksenia set down the volume she was looking at to open the pages. “From what I’ve heard, yes, it’s not uncommon for him to look for a good time. Although I have to admit I was surprised to hear of him doing anything now - he’s been all moony-eyed over one lady for a while, and she’s not the type I’d expect to take it lightly.”

“This one looks like what we’re looking for,” Ksenia said, flipping through the pages with their marked columns. She picked up a volume each in black, blue, and green. "Hopefully different colors will keep them from getting mixed up.”

“He looked so damn desperate right up until I kissed him. It’s a dangerous thing he deals with,” Lynwood said shaking his head slightly.

“Well, much as I’d like to say what he does is his business, it does affect the rest of us to some extent. I’m not going to pretend I know what goes on in his head, only that he’s had it rough growing up. It’s like he’s looking for something, but he doesn’t know what it is,” Ksenia said, with a subdued, thoughtful look. “I can understand that, to a point. It’s why I - have an arrangement with Deb.”

Lynwood nodded for a few moments before giving himself a shake. “Fair, I’ll try not to push him too much, but I’m not going to turn him down either. That was the best damn-” he suddenly stopped and blushed. “Let’s get these to the counter then.”

Ksenia picked up a handful of inexpensive pens, two bottles of black ink, and one of red. “That should hold us, I think. We can always split the ink later.” She set the ledgers and the pens down on the counter to pay.

The clerk looked up and smiled politely. “Starting a collection? Do you need sand and a blotter as well?” he asked, motioning towards a small display on the side of the counter.

Ksenia sighed. “That’s a good idea.” She picked up two blotters and the largest container of sand she saw - she remembered Artemis’s kit having some, and figured he could top his off from what she bought. “Please add these as well,” she said, setting them on the counter next to her other items.

“Excellent ma’am, that will be forty-five copper please,” the clerk said, setting the items onto a line of wrapping paper he pulled from a roll. After a moment the clerk folded the paper over and joined it with twine.

Paper for teaching Artemis, Ksenia remembered. “Oh, do you have a small copybook that would be five copper or less?” she asked the clerk. “Nothing fancy, just blank paper.”

“Certainly, just behind you there sir, those ones have a bit of cosmetic damage, but you’ll get far more paper for your coin,” he said pointing at a small bin of haphazardly stacked books that had clearly been rummaged through many times.

Ksenia flipped through a few, picking two medium sized books, one with a black cover and another with mottled blue. “I’d like these too,” Ksenia said, setting them on the counter and fishing in her pocket for the half-silver. “Don’t worry about getting them in the parcel if it’s too much trouble,” she said, handing over the coin.

“As you wish ma’am, and thank you for your patronage. Please do come back some time,” the clerk said, handing over the copybooks atop the wrapped parcel and smiling. Ksenia took the parcel, and nodded her head in thanks.

“Let’s get the tools now. I’m afraid I won’t be much help except for providing coin,” Ksenia said.

“Honestly, a boss that doesn’t try to help and just pays is perhaps the greatest blessing I’ve gotten out of this whole deal. It won’t take long, just need some good used spares.”

Ksenia was taken aback for half a second. “Too many unnecessary opinions and not enough knowledge in most other bosses, I take it?”

“Did you know that every single man or woman who’s got a copper thinks they know tools? Not as if I’ve been doing this for a thrice-taken decade,” Lynwood said with a grin. “Oh, before I forget, Amalia said you might have some spare aprons? Mine’s got a nasty gash near the pocket.”

Ksenia frowned.“I knew we forgot something. I meant to look at Miss Turley’s. Damn it!” She exhaled in frustration. “I’m not going to be around the next few days, but I’ll either replace or fix yours when I get back. Can you make it do for now? I’d fix it tonight but -” She lifted a hand to show him the bandages, which were starting to get rather grubby with all the errands.

“Oh, if it’s a bother don’t worry,” he said, waving his hands suddenly. After a moment he stopped and nodded at her bandages, “I’ve got some salve that’ll help with that in my kit back at the warehouse. What happened?”

“It’s not a bother, I’m annoyed at myself for forgetting. I tried to lug a heavy sack home and more or less gave myself rope burn on my hands,” Ksenia replied, shifting the parcel in her arms. “Looking back, it was a dumb thing to do, but I honestly didn’t think it’d be that much of a problem.”

Lynwood nodded with his own memories. “At least it’s not an actual burn, I’ve done that once grabbing a drill that got hot enough to catch fire without noticing,” he said leading Ksenia into the tools shop. The inside was filled with racks and boxes overflowing with all manner of tool and equipment. Lynwood navigated the small store quickly, moving to a far corner where a haphazard pile of crates overflowed with clearly used tools.

Ksenia hissed slightly in sympathy as Lynwood described his previous injury. She hadn’t burned herself that badly, but as a child she’d had the occasional mishap around kettles and irons, living and working with the servants. “These are all tools for carpentry and the like, right? I’ll just stay here out of your way,” Ksenia said, stationing herself a short distance away from the crates.

"Some for metalwork, some for carpentry, some I'm not really sure," Lynnwood said, digging in a crate full of hand drills. He pulled out two, setting them aside, before taking a hammer and whipping it toward the floor. Nodding, he set the hammer with the drills, and fished in another crate for four clamps. He spun the drills, checking their bits, before gathering the tools up and heading to the front.

"Probably run about thirty-five copper," Lynwood commented to Ksenia as she trailed behind him.

"That's not as bad as I thought it might be," Ksenia said.

"Guild rules. Have to change tools every so often to keep them in good nick, so places like this get them for coppers on the silver," he replied. "Does Artemis have a writing desk for all that?" He gestured to the pile of stationery in Ksenia's arms. "Like a small portable one," he explained.

Ksenia thought about Artemis's kit. "I don't think so," she replied. "He's got a rickety table and that's it, I think." She pondered a moment. "If any of you are good building furniture, that's definitely something that I'd be willing to barter for, once all the repairs are done."

"I only do smaller stuff, but I'm sure some of the crew can do larger things," Lynwood said. "So you'll probably get a fair amount of offers."

He walked over to the counter and set down the tools. The clerk looked over the pile on the counter and said, "Thirty-four copper." She held out her hand and asked "you want me to tie these for you, hon?"

"Yes, please," Lynwood said, giving the clerk a bright smile. The clerk pulled a length of twine from her counter and snipped it before threading it through the tools.

Ksenia handed Lynwood a quarter silver and nine copper to pay for the tools. "That's us sorted then. I hope Amalia and Ar- er, the Boss, are able to get everything squared away as well."

When Amalia and Artemis arrived at the River Fell Lumber and Supply salvage yard, there were already three distinct groups of customers waiting. Two of them looked rather irate and the third looked as though they were about to be. "That's not a good sign," Amalia commented. "Normally they're pretty prompt. Must be the experienced hands are working at the shipyard."

Artemis frowned slightly, glancing around, and lined up behind the other groups. A bored-looking, and very young, man slouched behind a table; he handed a list to the first group as they left, grumbling. The next group approached his station. "What did you need?" he drawled.

“Are you serious?” the man in front of him demanded. “I’ve told you lot three times what I needed. Three times! By Misanyt’s poxy balls, you’re too thick-headed to fill a simple order!” The customer threw his hands in the air and stormed off, raving about shitheads all the while. The next customer in line shrugged and quietly followed.

Artemis and Amalia moved forward and got the exact same bored sounding question. “What did you need?”

Artemis nodded and replied cheerily, “I’m looking to get another half-order for Jacobus. We ordered yesterday.”

The teen looked at Artemis blankly for a second. “Orders can be picked up on the side gate,” he said, not moving from his bored lean against his counter.

“No, I got that order, I need to make another for half of the same,” Artemis replied, still forcibly cheerful.

“I don’t have access to prior orders,” the teen finally said after several drawn out seconds of silence.

Artemis twitched, his features just starting to slip when Amalia put a hand on his shoulder. “We’ll need two pots of hard glue, one binder pot, ten fourteen foot boards, and as many tens as you have without bend,” she said, slowly and precisely.

The teen scribbled down what she’d said and then just wandered off into the yard with his note. Artemis watched him go with his mouth agape. He looked over at Amalia. “Did they stuff his head with wool, or do you think he was born that way?” he asked incredulously.

“My guess, his pa works in the yard on the off times, and he forced his kid to ‘do something productive’. You don’t get much quality from a bored out of their mind teenager, even if you pay them, which they might not be doing,” Amalia replied with a shrug.

“Must be nice to not worry about eating even if you don’t work,” Artemis snapped. He crossed his arms over his chest and tapped his foot, annoyed.

Amalia gave him a slightly confused grin and patted his shoulder. “Don’t be too rough on him Boss. You’d have done the same if you could afford to,” she said, trying to ensure Artemis didn’t do anything they’d regret. Artemis frowned more intensely and stopped bouncing his foot.

Eventually the bored teen returned, without the order slip, and settled back in at the desk. “That will be ninety-eight copper,” the teen said, holding out a hand limply.

Artemis narrowed his eyes and stared directly at the boy. “I counted a total of sixty, eighty-five on a bad day. What changed?” he asked, his voice no longer sounding remotely friendly.

The teen balked and reeled back as if struck. He shook himself for a moment and then pulled out a large book. The worker opened the book and scanned down the pages, writing the items and prices. When he was finished the total was an even fifty four copper.

Artemis felt his fingers twitch at his belt knife, he hated being cheated, especially when the one doing it couldn’t even pretend to care. Amalia was there ahead of him, her broad arms reaching across the counter and lifting the teen up bodily.

“You trying to get gutted and tossed in the drink kid?” she said coldly, her arms flexing as she held him aloft. “Because cheating folks is a good way to wind up without all your fingers. We’ll take it for forty, and you can walk away still in one piece.”

The teen was white as a sheet and visibly shaking. He nodded eventually and Amalia set him down roughly. When he’d recovered from stumbling he took the coppers Artemis placed on the counter and returned the written receipt. Amalia glared at the boy one last time as she returned to the wagon to bring it around while Artemis moved over to the delivery gate.

Waiting at the other gate, looking haggard and desperate, was a much older man. He had a clear bad eye and was riddled with scars. When Artemis approached he spoke slightly too loud. “Bill sir?” he said, holding out his hand.

Artemis handed him the written bill with the boy’s signature. “I’ll also need to settle the account for Jacobus of East Hall. The front desk was… unhelpful,” Artemis added, reaching into his stachel and removing the letter of credit.

The older man took the letter and frowned intensely for several seconds before nodding. “Aye, they left me here with the fools and children. On account of I’m broken and old. What can you do,” the old man said as he moved over to a small shack near the gate. He returned after several minutes of scribbling. “You’re in good standing now, welcome to put in more orders. Line of credit says four gold even.” The man seemed highly impressed by the figure, but Artemis was unsure if that was high, or to be expected. “Wait here for a bit, I’ll go whip the kids into getting your order on your wagon,” the old man said as he hobbled off past a pile of warped lumber.

Amalia hopped down and wandered over. “What’s the deal Boss?”

“We’ve got a four gold letter of credit, and they’re bringing our goods now,” Artemis replied, shrugging.

Amalia choked through her reply, “Four- Cecilia’s thighs boss. What’d Jacobus do to the owner to get that.”

“That’s high then, wasn’t certain. I figured lumber orders could get big,” Artemis grinned at Amalia. “I bet you think about those thighs more than you should as a idol-fearing woman.”

Amalia snorted and shook Artemis’ shoulder slightly, “Hush now, or I’ll sic Lynwood on you in the back of the wagon. Tell him he can do whatever he wants and you said it was okay,” she said with a broad evil grin.

Artemis looked at her wide-eyed. “That would be terribly rude to Ksenia,” he finally managed, though his cheeks were beet red.

“What would be terribly rude?” Ksenia asked, coming up to the wagon with Lynwood. “We thought Artemis had gotten into trouble or something, so we came over.” She glanced at Artemis’s red face, then back at Amalia’s smug one. “I take it that guess isn’t too far off then - what happened, did the yard staff all have tight pants today?” She patted Artemis’s shoulder in mocking sympathy.

“Nah, nothing his fault. They’re got the backups’ backups’ kids out here working the yard. Some shit thought he could cheat us. I told him off. Artemis was just commenting on Cecila,” Amalia said without further elaboration.

“Right.” Ksenia raised her eyebrows but didn’t press the issue. “I got three ledgers, different colors, more ink, and more sand. A few bits and bobs. Lynwood got the tools he needed, so fairly successful on our end.” As Ksenia finished a chastised looking collection of young men came marching out of the yard pushing two carts loaded with lumber and a handful of clay pots.

They made quick work of loading the cart, and actually displayed some skill in balancing and helping each other. Artemis would have been impressed if the sting of annoyance wasn’t still tickling the back of his neck. When they were finished the men disappeared back into the yard without a word.

Artemis hopped up into the back of the wagon and settled onto a pile of lumber. “Let’s get back, so we can work on the stuffing,” he said with a grin. Lynwood didn’t say anything, but slid down onto the pile of lumber across from Artemis, pressing his leg against the other man’s.

Ksenia hauled herself into the bed of the wagon and found a spot to wedge herself into. “Something tells me you don’t mean the fleece,” she commented, laughing. Everyone let out a surprised laugh at that and the wagon started its slow trundle back to the hall under Amalia’s skilled direction.

A strong breeze blew across the wagon, blowing Ksenia’s hair loose and into her face. Frowning, she pulled it back and tucked it behind her ears. “Amalia, I don’t suppose you’d have a spare string or bit of twine, do you?” Ksenia asked, looking up at the bench’s rider. “This wind is blowing my hair into my face and it’s driving me mad.”

“Hold on a moment,” Amalia said, fishing in her pocket. Ksenia held her hair, waiting, as Amalia handed her a length of twine.

Lynwood’s eyes flicked to Ksenia’s hands. “Ah, that’s what Amalia meant,” he said, before motioning with his hand to Ksenia’s ears and then letting it fall onto Artemis’ leg.

“About what?” Ksenia said, looping the twine around her hair.

“Said you were cuter than she expected,” Lynwood laughed at the grunt from Amalia.

“What, just because of my stupid ears?” Ksenia asked, flicking them with her finger. “Come across a lot of people who think the exact opposite.” Noticing Lynwood’s hand, she stared at Artemis and then back down the road.

“Oh, those too. I meant your neck though,” Lynwood said and laughed as he looked at Amalia’s own slowly reddening neck. The woman growled softly and he stifled his laughter.

“Funny. That’s the sort of compliment I’d expect from Deb,” Ksenia said, keeping her gaze fixed on the road. She crossed her arms and folded into herself as the wagon bumped along. Amalia’s head tilted, as if suddenly intently listening for anything further Ksenia might say.

Artemis pulled his limbs in and then stretched his arms and legs out, lounging back against his woodpile. In the end he rested firmly stradling Lynwood’s leg between his own with his shoulders leaned back relaxed.

“Can’t you at least wait until you’re not likely to get splinters,” mumbled Ksenia, resting her chin on her hand as she propped her elbow on her knee.

“What are you on about?” Artemis asked, lolling his head over to the side to stare at her.

“I take it you remember nothing of the conversation we had just a few hours ago, then,” Ksenia said. She refused to look at him.

“Ah, that,” he said, lolling his head to the front. “No touching,” he said to Lynwood and then rolled his head to the front of the wagon. Lynwood chuckled and bumped Artemis’ legs with his own before looking around. “How’s traffic?” Artemis asked to the front.

Amalia shrugged at him as she guided the wagon around a stopped wagon and back onto the correct side of the street. “Nothing much, lots of folks getting ready to make dinner I imagine, but the workers aren’t out yet so no rush. We should be back well before sundown at this rate.”

“That’s good,” Ksenia replied, absently. She was trying to figure out where they were in relation to the Goose and the warehouse, and if she wouldn’t be better off just walking back by herself. She doubted anyone would care, if they noticed. Artemis and Lynwood clearly wouldn’t, and Amalia was in charge of the ox still.

Artemis lolled his head back to the rear of the wagon. “What do you think Lena will cook for her first night?” he asked Ksenia with a short yawn.

“I haven’t any idea,” she said to the road. “Hopefully tasty.” She felt exhausted suddenly and pillowed her head on her arms, staying curled up.

“I can only hope, and then we can try whatever’s in that barrel. Make sure we get on that mattress first thing, otherwise we’ll forget and be very straw covered in the morning.” Artemis closed his eyes and let his muscles relax. “Wake us when we get there or if there’s trouble Amalia.”